Detached Retina (Retinal Detachment)

Retinal detachment is a severe ocular issue that occurs when the retina, which is a thin layer of tissue located in the back part of the eye, and gets separated from the underlying blood vessels that provide it with essential nutrients and oxygen. Without prompt attention and treatment, this condition can lead to permanent visual impairment or even total loss of vision.

Retinal detachment is usually considered an ocular emergency that requires prompt surgical intervention. This issue is most prevalent in individuals over the age of 40, and more so in those with a family history of the disease, severe myopia, or those who have previously had cataract surgery.

When it comes to the symptoms and causes of retinal detachment, individuals typically do not experience pain. However, there are visual indicators that something may be amiss, primarily, the appearance of floaters, tiny specks that seem to drift pass one’s field of vision, as well as flashes of light in one or both eyes. Moreover, one may experience blurred vision, reduced peripheral (side) vision, and an impression of a shadow or curtain descending over the field of vision. It is highly recommended that people experiencing these symptoms seek immediate medical attention.

The key causes of retinal detachment can be attributed to three types - rhegmatogenous, tractional, and exudative.

Rhegmatogenous retinal detachment, the most common form, occurs when a tear or hole in the retina allows fluid to pass into the space underneath it, causing it to detach.

Tractional retinal detachment involves the scarring of the vitreous gel which pulls the retina away from the blood vessels, often tied to conditions like uncontrolled diabetes.

Lastly, exudative detachment is caused by fluid leakage from behind the retina due to inflammatory disorders or age-related macular degeneration.

 

Treatment for retinal detachment is typically surgical, with the overall objective being to seal holes or tears in the retina and reattach the retina to the back wall of the eye. Based on the severity of the detachment, urgency, or the presence of other eye diseases, one of these procedures may be used: pneumatic retinopexy, scleral buckling surgery, or vitrectomy.

Pneumatic retinopexy involves the injection of a gas bubble into the eye that presses against the retinal tear, sealing it, and allowing the fluid to be absorbed. Scleral buckling surgery implies the use of silicone rubber or sponge to create an indent on the outside of the eye, relieving the pull on the retina and helping it reattach. Vitrectomy involves the removal and replacement of vitreous gel from the eye, which eases the reattachment of the retina.

Despite the variety of effective surgical options, early detection remains the key to successfully treating retinal detachment. A significant way to prevent potential loss of sight is maintaining regular eye examinations, especially for individuals over 40 or those at higher risk. Retinal detachment is a serious condition, but with timely intervention, most people can expect a significant restoration of vision.