Retinal Detachment

When dealing with retinal detachment, a medical emergency where the retina separates from the underlying choroid, causing vision loss if untreated. Also known as RD, it often follows a vitreous detachment, the pulling away of the gel‑like vitreous body from the retina or a retinal tear, a small break that lets fluid slip underneath the retina. These three entities form a chain: vitreous detachment can create traction, a retinal tear may develop, and fluid accumulation behind the retina leads to retinal detachment. Understanding this chain helps you spot warning signs early and seek care before permanent damage occurs. The condition is more common in people over 50, those with high myopia, or anyone who has experienced eye trauma or previous eye surgery.

What to Watch For

The first clue that something’s wrong often shows up as new floaters – tiny specks that drift across your vision – or a sudden flash of light, especially in peripheral vision. Both symptoms signal that the vitreous is moving inside the eye, which can stress the retina. If you notice a curtain‑like shadow spreading from the side of your visual field, that’s a classic sign of retinal detachment progressing. An eye exam with dilated pupils can reveal a retinal tear or the early stages of detachment. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ultrasound are common tools that let doctors see the exact location and extent of the separation.

Treatments aim to close the tear and re‑attach the retina before the fluid pocket expands. One non‑invasive option is laser photocoagulation, a procedure that uses focused laser burns to seal the edges of a retinal tear. This creates a scar that tethers the retina, stopping fluid from seeping underneath. If the detachment is already widespread, surgeons may perform a vitrectomy, the removal of the vitreous gel and replacement with a gas or silicone oil bubble to press the retina back into place. Another approach, scleral buckle surgery, involves stitching a flexible band around the eye to support the retina externally. The choice of method depends on the size, location, and duration of the detachment, as well as the patient’s overall eye health. Prompt intervention dramatically improves the odds of restoring vision, often to near‑normal levels.

Beyond immediate treatment, preventive steps can lower your risk. Regular eye exams, especially after any eye injury or if you have a history of high myopia, let doctors catch early vitreous changes. Controlling systemic conditions like diabetes and hypertension also reduces the likelihood of retinal complications. If you’re prescribed medications that affect the eye – for example, steroids or certain anticoagulants – discuss any visual changes with your doctor right away. The collection of articles below dives deeper into each of these topics, from recognizing subtle symptoms to comparing surgical techniques, so you’ll have the facts you need to act fast and protect your sight.