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A
retinal detachment occurs when the retina's sensory and pigment
layers separate. It is a problem that occurs most frequently in the
middle-aged and elderly.
Types
1.
Rhegmatogenous RD: This is the most common type & occurs when
there is a break in the sensory layer of the retina. It is more common
in myopes & in patients who have undergone eye surgeries.
2.
Tractional RD: Occurs when strands of vitreous or scar tissue create
traction on the retina and more likely in diabetics.
3. Exudative RD: Happens when fluid collects underneath the layers
of the retina, causing it to separate from the back wall of the
eye. This type usually occurs in conjunction with another disease.
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| Signs and Symptoms
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Light
flashes /"Wavy," or "watery" vision
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Veil
or curtain obstructing vision
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Shower
of black spots, or spider webs in front of the eye
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Sudden
decrease of vision
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Detection
and Diagnosis
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The
doctor makes the diagnosis of a retinal detachment after thoroughly
examining the retina with ophthalmoscopy / ultrasonography. The
retinal surgeon's first concern is to determine whether the macula
(the center of the retina) is attached.
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Treatment
options
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Pneumatic
retinopexy: The surgeon injects a small gas bubble into the vitreous
cavity. The bubble presses against the retina, flattening it against
the back wall of the eye.
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Scleral
buckle:
With this technique, a tiny band made of silicone is attached to the
outside of the eye, pressing inward and holding the retina in position.
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Vitrectomy:
In this procedure,the vitreous from the eye is removed & replaced
by either gas or oil.
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| How
successful is surgery to repair a retinal detachment? |
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Most
of the time, surgery succeeds in reattaching the retina. Vision
after surgery will depend on which part of the retina was detached
and how the eye heals after surgery.
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What you
can do…
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Notify
your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:
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An obstruction of your peripheral vision (veil, shadow, or curtain)
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Sudden shower of floaters
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Light
flashes
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Spider
webs
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