A retinal detachment is what happens occurs when the retina's pigment and sensory layers separate. This problem occurs most often in middle-aged to elderly patients. A detachment that is left untreated can cause tremendous damage to the patients vision and is considered and emergency.

In general terms, this detachment happens by vitreous fluid settling underneath the retina, causing it to separate from the back of the eye. Vision is lost wherever the detachment occurs. A detechment normally starts in the peripheral vison and appears to be a veil or curtain covering the vision to the patient. Left untreated, the entire retina will eventually detach and all vision in that eye will be lost.

Signs and Symptoms veil of curtain over vision flashing lights wavy vision sudden onset of floaters sudden decrease in vision

This photo represents what a patient with a retinal detachment might see

Diagnosis
A diagnosis is usually made during a dilated fundus exam. Ultrasound may also be used to allow the doctor to see the back of the eye from different angles.

Treatment
While there are several ways to treat a detachment, the doctor will make a determination based upon the type of detachment, its locaton, and its severity. In some cases pneumatic retinopexy (injecting a gas bubble into the eye) is used. For others a surgical procedure called scleral buckle is used. In either case, laser or cryotherapy will usually be used to "tack" the retina to the back of the eye (this is much like spot welding). In cases where the prior two procedures were unsuccessful or were inappropriate, injection of silicone oil may be used to attach the retina.

Visit the National Eye Institue for other information on retinal detachments.

The Retina Eye Center provides this information for educational and communication purposes only and it should not be construed as medical advice. Information published on this website is not intended to replace, supplant, or augment a consultation with an retina professional regarding the viewer's own medical care. The Retina Eye Center disclaims any and all liability for injury or other damages that could result from use of the information obtained from this site.