Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that occurs when the retina, the thin light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye, becomes separated from its underlying layer of support tissue. Retinal detachment can cause vision problems, including blurry or absent vision in the affected eye. If left untreated, total vision loss may occur. Fortunately, retinal detachment can often be treated and vision can be restored.

What Happens When Retinal Detachment Occurs?

Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is separated from its underlying layer of supportive tissue. This can happen when the vitreous gel, which fills the back of the eye and provides support for the retina, shrinks and pulls away from the retinal tissue. This can cause a tear in the retina that allows fluid to pass underneath and separate the retina from its supportive layer. This can cause vision problems, including blurriness, spots, or total vision loss.

Treatments for Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment can often be treated successfully. The most common treatment is surgery, which involves sealing the retina back down to the supportive layer with laser or freezing treatments. In more severe cases, a retinal detachment may need to be treated with a vitrectomy, which is a more complex procedure that involves removing the vitreous gel and replacing it with a gas bubble or silicone oil to hold the retina in place.

What Exams Can Detect Retinal Detachment?

Retinal detachment can often be detected through an ophthalmologic exam. During this exam, the doctor will use a special lighted instrument to look at the back of the eye and check for signs of retinal detachment. The doctor may also take a retinal photograph or use ultrasound to further examine the retina.

Causes for Retinal Detachment

The most common cause of retinal detachment is aging. As people age, the vitreous gel in the back of the eye can begin to shrink and pull away from the retina. This can cause a tear in the retina that allows fluid to pass underneath and separate the retina from its supportive layer. Other causes of retinal detachment include trauma to the eye, certain medical conditions such as high myopia, and complications from certain medical procedures such as cataract surgery.

What Research About Retinal Detachment Exists?

Research into retinal detachment is ongoing. Scientists are working to develop better treatments for this condition, as well as better ways to diagnose it. They are also looking at ways to reduce the risk of retinal detachment, such as using laser treatments to seal the retina to its supportive layer. Additionally, researchers are exploring the potential of stem cell therapy to restore vision in cases of retinal detachment.