MEDICAL EMERGENCY
Retinal detachment is a serious condition where the retina separates from underlying tissue. This requires urgent surgical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss. Call immediately if you experience symptoms!
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back wall of the eye, losing its blood supply. This separation prevents the retina from functioning properly and requires immediate medical intervention to prevent permanent vision loss.
Types of Retinal Detachment
Rhegmatogenous (Most Common)
Caused by holes or tears in the retina that allow fluid to seep underneath and separate the retina from the underlying tissue. This is the most frequent type of retinal detachment.
Tractional
Occurs when scar tissue on the retina's surface contracts and pulls the retina away from the back of the eye. Often associated with diabetic retinopathy or other conditions causing scarring.
Exudative (Serous)
Results from fluid leaking beneath the retina without any tears or holes. Often caused by inflammation, injury, or vascular abnormalities.
Understanding the Disease
Risk Factors
- • Lattice degeneration
- • High myopia (nearsightedness)
- • Previous eye trauma or surgery
- • Posterior vitreous detachment
- • Family history of retinal detachment
- • Advanced age
- • Previous retinal detachment in other eye
- • Certain eye diseases or conditions
Symptoms
⚠️ CALL IMMEDIATELY if you experience these symptoms
- • Sudden increase in floaters
- • Flashing lights in vision
- • Shadow or curtain in peripheral vision
- • Gradual reduction in side vision
- • May be initially asymptomatic
- • Sudden vision loss (in severe cases)
Diagnostic Methods
Dilated Fundus Examination
Comprehensive retinal evaluation
OCT Imaging
Detailed cross-sectional images
Ultrasound
When view is obscured
Visual Field Testing
Assesses peripheral vision loss
Emergency Treatment Options
Scleral Buckle
A silicone band placed around the eye to provide external support and close retinal tears
Pneumatic Retinopexy
Gas bubble injection with specific head positioning to seal retinal tears
Vitrectomy
Surgical removal of vitreous gel to directly reattach the retina
Laser Photocoagulation
Laser treatment to seal retinal tears and prevent detachment
Prevention & Management
- • Regular comprehensive eye exams
- • Prompt treatment of retinal tears
- • Eye protection during sports/activities
- • Awareness of warning symptoms
- • Management of underlying conditions
- • Immediate medical attention for symptoms
Excellent Prognosis with Prompt Treatment
When retinal tears are treated promptly before detachment occurs, the prognosis is excellent. Even with established detachment, success rates for reattachment surgery range from 75-95% when treated immediately. Early detection and treatment are crucial for preserving vision.
Call (574) 366-0554 immediately