RETINAL DETACHMENT
DEFINITION OF RETINAL DETACHMENT
Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina separates from the underlying layers of the eye, leading to sudden vision loss if not treated promptly. It is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention to prevent permanent blindness.
The retina is responsible for converting light into neural signals, which are sent to the brain for vision processing. If it detaches, the lack of oxygen and nutrients can cause irreversible damage to retinal cells.
RISK FACTORS OF RETINAL DETACHMENT
- Aging
- Severe myopia (nearsightedness)
- Eye trauma or injury
- Previous eye surgery
- Diabetes
SYMPTOMS
black spots or cobweb-like shapes
Flashes of light (photopsia) in the peripheral vision.
A dark curtain or shadow spreading across the field of vision
Blurred vision or reduced central/peripheral vision.
Sudden vision loss in one eye (painless but progressive).
TREATMENT TYPES
- A laser is used to seal retinal tears and prevent fluid leakage.
- Freezes the edges of a retinal tear to promote scarring and adhesion.
- A gas bubble is injected into the eye to push the retina back into place.
- Requires head positioning to keep the bubble in contact with the detachment.
- A silicone band is placed around the eye to relieve tension on the retina.
- Used in rhegmatogenous retinal detachments.
- Removal of the vitreous gel and replacement with gas, oil, or saline to flatten the retina.
- Effective for large detachments, tractional detachment, or recurrent cases.
FAQS
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina—the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye—pulls away from its normal position. This is a serious eye emergency that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
Common causes include:
Aging-related changes (posterior vitreous detachment)
Eye injury or trauma
High myopia (severe nearsightedness)
Previous eye surgery (especially cataract surgery)
Family history of retinal detachment
Lattice degeneration (thinning of the retina)
Sudden appearance of floaters (dark specks or cobwebs)
Flashes of light in the peripheral vision
A shadow or curtain over part of your vision
Blurry vision or a feeling that something is blocking your sight
Decreased peripheral (side) vision
No, retinal detachment is usually painless, which is why it’s important to act quickly if you notice any vision changes.
A retinal specialist or ophthalmologist will:
Perform a dilated eye exam
Use imaging tests like ultrasound or OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography)
Check for retinal tears, holes, or fluid accumulation
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