Retinal detachment

What is Retinal detachment?

A retinal detachment occurs when the retinas sensory and pigment layers separate. Retinal detachments occur usually in the middle aged or elderly.

A retinal detachment is very serious and requires immediate attention and surgery as it can cause a permanent loss in vision if untreated.

Causes of Retinal detachment

The most common cause of retinal detachments is when there is a tear in the sensory layer of the retina, and fluid seeps underneath resulting in the layers separating.

Detachments can also occur when there is traction on the retina, often caused by scar tissue and common in patients with diabetes.

Diagnosis of Retinal detachment

Symptoms of retinal detachments include

Distorted or watery images
Obstructed vision
Floaters that resemble spots
Sudden decrease of vision

A diagnosis involves a thorough examination of the retina through an ophthalmoscopy.

Treatments for Retinal detachment

Treatment is aimed at closing retinal tears to reattach the retina. Once the retina becomes detached, it must be repaired surgically. Pneumatic retinopexy can be used to treat uncomplicated detachments. Once the retina is reattached, the retinal tear can be sealed by laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy.