Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition in which the retina, the thin layer of tissue at the back of the eye responsible for capturing and transmitting visual signals to the brain, becomes separated from its normal position. This separation can lead to a loss of vision if not promptly treated.
If you have Retinal Detachment you may observe
Flashing Lights
Shadow or Curtain Effect
Blurred Vision
Loss of Vision
Retinal detachment requires immediate medical attention. Treatment options typically involve surgical intervention to reattach the retina. Different procedures, such as pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckle, or vitrectomy, may be utilized depending on the severity and location of the detachment.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial in preserving vision. Regular comprehensive eye exams can help detect early signs of retinal detachment, especially for individuals at higher risk due to specific eye conditions or previous trauma. If any symptoms of retinal detachment arise, seeking immediate medical attention is essential to prevent permanent vision loss.
Injecting air or gas into your eye In this procedure, called pneumatic retinopexy (RET-ih-no-pek-see), the surgeon injects a bubble of air or gas into the center part of the eye (the vitreous cavity). If positioned properly, the bubble pushes the area of the retina containing the hole or holes against the wall of the eye, stopping the flow of fluid into the space behind the retina.
Indenting the surface of your eye. This procedure, called scleral (SKLAIR-ul) buckling, involves the surgeon sewing (suturing) a piece of silicone material to the white of your eye (sclera) over the affected area. This procedure indents the wall of the eye and relieves some of the force caused by the vitreous tugging on the retina.
Draining and replacing the fluid in the eye In this procedure, called vitrectomy (vih-TREK-tuh-me), the surgeon removes the vitreous along with any tissue that is tugging on the retina. Air, gas or silicone oil is then injected into the vitreous space to help flatten the retina.