RETINAL DETACHMENT

 

What is Retinal Detachment?

Retinal Detachment is a serious eye condition where the retina (the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye) separates from its normal position, leading to vision loss or blindness if not treated immediately. It is considered a medical emergency and requires urgent attention.

Causes of Retinal Detachment

1. Aging – More common in people over 50 due to thinning of the retina.
2. Severe Nearsightedness (Myopia) – Increases the risk due to a thinner retina.
3. Eye Trauma or Injury – A hard impact can cause the retina to detach.
4. Previous Eye Surgery – Cataract surgery or other eye procedures may increase the risk.
5. Diabetes (Diabetic Retinopathy) – Can lead to abnormal blood vessel growth and scarring, pulling the retina away.
6. Family History – Genetic factors can make some people more prone to retinal detachment.

Types of Retinal Detachment

1. Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment (Most Common)

   • Caused by a tear or hole in the retina, allowing fluid to collect underneath and separate it from the eye.
   • Often linked to aging and high myopia (nearsightedness).

2. Tractional Retinal Detachment

   • Caused by scar tissue pulling the retina away from its normal position.
   • Common in people with diabetes or previous eye injuries.

3. Exudative Retinal Detachment

   • Occurs due to fluid buildup under the retina without any tear.
   • Can be caused by inflammatory diseases, tumors, or high blood pressure.

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

• Sudden increase in floaters (small black spots or strings in vision)
• Flashes of light (photopsia) in the side (peripheral) vision
• Shadow or curtain effect over part of the vision
• Blurred or distorted vision
• Complete loss of vision in one eye (in severe cases)

Diagnosis of Retinal Detachment

• Dilated Eye Exam – The retina is examined for tears or detachment.
• Ultrasound Scan – Used if the retina is difficult to see due to bleeding.
• Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) – Provides high-resolution imaging of the retina.

Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment

Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.

1. Laser Surgery (Photocoagulation) – Seals small retinal tears before detachment occurs.
2. Cryotherapy (Freezing Treatment) – Creates a scar to hold the retina in place.
3. Pneumatic Retinopexy – A gas bubble is injected into the eye to push the retina back into place.
4. Scleral Buckling Surgery – A silicone band is placed around the eye to push the retina back.
5. Vitrectomy Surgery – Removes fluid and scar tissue from the eye to reposition the retina.

Importance of Regular Eye Examinations

Since retinal detachment can happen suddenly and without warning, regular eye check-ups help detect early signs like retinal tears or thinning. People with high myopia, diabetes, or a history of eye injury should be extra cautious.