Retinal Detachment

The retina is responsible for receiving light and sending signals to the brain, which allows us to see. When the retina detaches, it separates from the blood vessels supplying oxygen and nutrients. Without prompt treatment, a retinal detachment can lead to permanent vision loss. 

What is a Retinal Detachment? 

When the retina detaches, fluid from the eye can pass through the tear and accumulate under the retina, causing it to lift and separate from the back of the eye. There are three main types of retinal detachment: 

1. Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment: Occurs when a tear or break in the retina allows fluid to pass underneath, separating it from the back wall of the eye. 
2. Tractional Retinal Detachment: Occurs when scar tissue on the retina’s surface contracts and pulls the retina away from the back of the eye. 
3. Exudative Retinal Detachment: In this case, fluid builds up under the retina without tears or breaks.  

Diagnosing Retinal Detachment 

Diagnosing retinal detachment involves a comprehensive eye exam and several diagnostic tests. During the exam, your eye doctor will look for signs of retinal tears, detachment, or other abnormalities. Some of the common diagnostic methods used to detect retinal detachment include: 

• Dilated Eye Exam: Special drops dilate your pupils, allowing your doctor to examine the retina for tears, holes, or signs of detachment. 
• Ultrasound Imaging: An ultrasound may be performed if a retinal detachment is suspected but difficult to see clearly due to bleeding or other obstructions. 
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): Provides detailed cross-sectional images of the retina, allowing the doctor to see the layers of the retina and detect any abnormalities or separations. 

When to Worry About Retinal Detachment 

Retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency, and prompt treatment is essential to prevent vision loss. It’s important to recognize the warning signs and seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms: 

• Sudden Onset of Floaters 

• Flashes of Light 

• Shadow or Curtain Over Vision 

• Blurred or Distorted Vision 

Treatment for Retinal Detachment 

The treatment for retinal detachment depends on the severity and type of detachment. Surgery is usually necessary to repair the retina and restore vision. There are several different surgical options available: 

1. Laser surgery can create a barrier around the tear for small retinal tears or holes, preventing fluid from passing through and causing detachment.  
2. Cryopexy involves freezing the area around the retinal tear to create a scar that seals the retina to the back of the eye.  
3. With Pneumatic Retinapexy, a gas bubble is injected into the eye, pressing the retina against the back of the eye, allowing it to reattach.  
4. Scleral Buckling uses a flexible band (scleral buckle) placed around the outside of the eye to push the wall of the eye inward, helping the retina reattach.  
5. A Vitrectomy involves removing the vitreous gel inside the eye and replacing it with a clear solution or gas bubble to reattach the retina. 

Schedule Your Appointment 

If you are experiencing any symptoms of retinal detachment or have concerns about your eye health, don’t wait to seek professional care. At Total Eye Care, our experienced team is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and treatment options to help you preserve your vision. Schedule an appointment today to thoroughly examine your eyes and discuss any concerns you may have.  

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