Retinal Detachment
Emergency diagnosis and surgical management of retinal detachment — prompt intervention to preserve vision and prevent permanent loss.
What is Retinal Detachment?
A serious eye emergency where the retina separates from its underlying tissue, leading to vision loss.
The retina is a thin, light-sensitive layer lining the back of the eye. Light entering the eye is focused onto the retina, which then sends visual signals to the brain through the optic nerve.
When the retina becomes damaged or displaced from its normal position, these signals are disrupted and vision becomes blurred or lost. This condition is known as retinal detachment.
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the tissues that nourish it. If not treated promptly, it can result in permanent loss of vision. Therefore, retinal detachment is considered a medical emergency.
Types of Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment can occur in different ways depending on the underlying cause:
- Rhegmatogenous: Caused by a tear or break in the retina
- Exudative (Secondary): Caused by fluid accumulation without a retinal tear
- Tractional: Caused by scar tissue pulling the retina away
Signs & Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Retinal detachment is usually painless, but warning signs often appear suddenly. Immediate eye evaluation is crucial if you notice:
- Flashing lights: Brief flashes of light, especially in peripheral vision
- Floaters: Black spots, threads, cobwebs or moving specks in vision
- Vision loss: A shadow, curtain or dark area covering part of the vision
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Who is at Risk?
- Age above 40 years
- High myopia (severe nearsightedness)
- Previous retinal detachment in one eye
- Eye injuries (sports like boxing, bungee jumping, trauma)
- Family history of retinal detachment
- Previous cataract surgery
- Eye diseases such as retinoschisis, uveitis or lattice degeneration
How is Retinal Detachment Diagnosed?
The ophthalmologist dilates the pupil using eye drops to examine the retina thoroughly. If retinal detachment is suspected, ocular ultrasonography may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment Options for Retinal Detachment
Treatment depends on the type, size and severity of the detachment. Doctors at Maa Nursing Home and NetraJyoti Eyecare Centre offer advanced surgical treatments:
Cryopexy
Used when detachment is caused by a retinal tear or hole. This freeze treatment seals the tear and reattaches the retina to its position.
Scleral Buckling
A small synthetic band is placed around the eye to gently push the eye wall against the detached retina. The buckle remains permanently and is not visible externally.
Pneumatic Retinopexy
A gas bubble is injected into the eye. The bubble presses the retina back into place while laser or cryotherapy seals the tear.
Vitrectomy
Recommended for large or complex detachments. The vitreous gel is removed and replaced with gas or silicone oil to help reattach the retina.
LASER Photocoagulation
LASER is used to seal retinal tears or holes, preventing fluid from passing through and worsening the detachment.
Why Early Treatment Matters
- Prevents permanent vision loss
- Higher success with early surgery
- Preserves central and peripheral vision