WHAT WE TREAT
Retinal Tears & Detachments
A retinal detachment is the separation of the retina from the back of the eye, which can lead to vision loss.
About Retinal Tears & Detachments
Overview
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina—the thin, light-sensitive layer of tissue lining the back of the eye—separates from the underlying supportive tissue. This condition is a urgent medical event that can result in permanent vision loss if not treated within an appropriate amount of time. In most cases, retinal detachment develops following the formation of a retinal tear that allows fluid to pass through and lift the retina from its normal position. Less commonly, it can occur after trauma to the eye.
A retinal tear often develops spontaneously as part of the natural aging process, typically during a posterior vitreous separation (PVS), when the gel inside the eye (the vitreous ) begins to shrink and pull away from the retina.
Causes
Retinal detachment occurs in roughly 1 out of 10,000 people per year. It may occur spontaneously or as a result of trauma, surgery, or other eye conditions. Risk factors include:
- Nearsightedness (myopia)
- A prior retinal tear or detachment
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Cataract surgery
- Eye trauma
- Glaucoma
- Lattice degeneration (thin or weak areas in the retina)
- Retinal detachment in the opposite eye
Treatment Options From LRR
Treatments
Common Treatments Include:
- Laser and Cryotherapy – If the detachment is small or localized, your retina specialist may use laser photocoagulation or cryotherapy (freezing) to seal the retinal tear and prevent fluid from spreading under the retina.
- Pneumatic Retinopexy – For certain types of detachments, a gas bubble can be injected into the eye. The patient is positioned so the bubble presses against the retinal tear, holding it in place while laser or cryotherapy seals it. This procedure is done in the office and is suitable only for specific cases.
- Scleral Buckle Surgery – In this operating room procedure, a soft silicone band is placed around the outside of the eye to gently push the wall of the eye against the detached retina. Laser or cryotherapy is used to seal retinal breaks, and the buckle remains in place permanently.
- Immunosuppressive or biologic agents – used in chronic or aggressive cases, often in collaboration with a rheumatologist
- Vitrectomy – A vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous gel and any scar tissue inside the eye, allowing the retina to be repositioned. A gas or silicone oil bubble is often placed in the eye to hold the retina in place during healing. The gas bubble dissolves naturally over several weeks, whereas silicone oil requires a second procedure for removal once the retina has stabilized.
More To Know
Symptoms
Retinal detachment is typically painless, but its symptoms can be sudden and dramatic. They may include:
- A sudden increase in floaters (black spots, strands, or cobweb-like shapes)
- A shadow or curtain across part of the visual field
- Distortion of straight lines or blurry vision
- If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
If any of these symptoms occur, seek medical attention immediately.
About Floaters
Floaters are small, shadow-like shapes that drift across your vision. They are often harmless, but a sudden increase in floaters can indicate a retinal tear or detachment. Floaters occur when the vitreous gel liquefies and shrinks, forming tiny clumps or strands that cast shadows on the retina. This process, known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), is a normal part of aging. However, if the vitreous pulls too hard on the retina during PVD, it may cause a tear. New or rapidly worsening floaters should always be evaluated urgently.
Prognosis
If the macula remains attached, nearly complete visual recovery is possible. If it was detached, some degree of permanent vision loss is likely. Your prescription for glasses may also need to be updated after healing.
Prepare For Your Visit
If you already have an appointment made, we look forward to providing your care! If you need an appointment or have questions, please reach out to the Lakes Region Retina care team.
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