Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment or detachment of the inner, light-sensitive layer of the eye from its supporting structures in the inner eye, is a serious eye problem that may occur at any age. It is more prevalent in the near-sighted or those with a history of retinal detachment in their family.

Causes and Types

• Most retinal detachments are caused by one or more small tears or holes in the retina.
• Complications due to diabetes, severe inflammation or tumors can also cause retinal detachment.
• A hard blow to the eye may also cause the retina to detach.

Signs and Symptoms:

• Sudden appearance of black spots called floaters, in front of the eye.
• Flashes of light in the field of vision indicates shrinking of the vitreous, a jelly like substance that fills the eye. This can lead to tears in the retina.
• Dull vision overall or dark shadows in some parts of the side vision.
• A total loss of vision can mean complete retinal detachment.

Diagnosis and Treatment:

• Examining the inside of the eye with an opthalmoscope can detect the problem.
• Retinal detachment cannot be cured by medicines, it can only be treated through surgery.
• Sometimes if there is a localised retinal detachment other forms of therapy, like cryotherapy, which involves sealing the retinal tears by freezing, may also be useful.
• Laser can also be used, alone or in combination with surgery, for the purpose.
• Surgery can be performed for retinal detachment in two ways. Externally, called scleral buckling and internally, called vitreo retinal surgery.

Even after a successful retinal surgery, you may regain only 50% to 60% of useful vision, depending upon the general status of the retina, the duration of the period the retina was detached before surgery and the presence of any post-surgical complications

Preventive Measures

• Early symptoms of retinal tear should be taken seriously.
• A routine check-up of the retina every 6 months is recommended in high-risk cases like those with diabetes, short-sight, long-sight or a family history of retinal tears and detachment.