What is Posterior Vitreous Detachment?
Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a natural aging change where the vitreous gel separates from the retina. This common condition occurs as the vitreous shrinks and pulls away from the retinal surface, typically causing flashes and floaters.
Understanding the Disease
Risk Factors
- • Age over 60 (most common factor)
- • Myopia (nearsightedness)
- • Previous eye trauma
- • Recent cataract surgery
- • Eye inflammation
- • Family history of retinal problems
Symptoms
Posterior vitreous detachment typically causes:
- • Intermittent flashing lights
- • New floaters (often sudden onset)
- • Black dots or cobweb appearance
- • Weiss ring (ring-shaped floater)
- • Peripheral light flashes
- • Usually no central vision loss
Diagnostic Methods
Dilated Eye Examination
Complete retinal evaluation
Indirect Ophthalmoscopy
Detailed peripheral examination
Treatment Options
Observation (Most Cases)
Usually no treatment required for uncomplicated PVD
Regular monitoring and patient education about symptoms
Laser Treatment
Immediate laser photocoagulation if retinal tear develops
Prevents progression to retinal detachment
Emergency Surgery
Vitrectomy or scleral buckle if retinal detachment occurs
Required in 10-15% of cases with complications
Important Note
While most PVD is benign, 10-15% of cases can develop retinal tears requiring immediate treatment. Regular follow-up and awareness of warning signs is crucial.
Prevention & Management
- • Regular comprehensive eye examinations
- • Immediate evaluation of new symptoms
- • Education about warning signs
- • Follow-up care as recommended
- • Protection from eye trauma
- • Prompt treatment of complications
Excellent Prognosis with Monitoring
85% of PVD cases never develop complications and require only observation. For the 10-15% that develop retinal tears, the prognosis is excellent if detected early and treated promptly. Regular follow-up is key to successful outcomes.
When to Seek Immediate Care
Call immediately if you experience sudden increase in floaters, curtain or shadow in vision, or loss of peripheral vision. These may indicate retinal tear or detachment requiring emergency treatment to prevent permanent vision loss.