Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is lifted or pulled from the wall of the eye. If not treated immediately, a retinal detachment can cause permanent vision loss. A retinal detachment is a medical emergency. Anyone experiencing the symptoms of a retinal detachment should call the office immediately.
Symptoms of retinal detachment
- The appearance of a curtain over the field of vision.
- Seeing light flashes
- Wavy or watery vision
- A sudden decrease in vision
- A sudden increase in the number of floaters in the field of vision
Who is most at risk for retinal detachment?
- Those who are very nearsighted
- The elderly
- People with a family history of retinal detachment
- Those who have had cataract surgery
- Patients with diabetes or other eye disorders
Treatment for retinal tear and/or detachment
Retinal tears and/or detachments may be treated, particularly if caught early, with an in office laser procedure called laser retinopexy. The laser is used to “weld” the area around the retinal tear to prevent retinal detachment or prevent progression of the retinal detachment. In more advanced cases, an operative procedure such as a vitrectomy or scleral buckle may be required.
