Retinal detachment is a separation of the light-sensitive membrane in the back of the eye (the retina) from its supporting layers.
The retina is the clear tissue in the back of the eye. It helps you see the images that are focused on it by the cornea and the lens.
When the retina becomes detached, bleeding from area blood vessels may cloud the inside of the eye, which is normally filled with vitreous fluid. Central vision becomes severely affected if the macula, the part of the retina responsible for fine vision, becomes detached.
Tests will be done to check the retina and pupil response and your ability to see colors properly. These may include:
Most people with a retinal detachment will need surgery. Surgery may be done immediately or after a short period of time.
Surgery may not be needed if you do not have symptoms or have had the detachment for a while.
Some types of retinal detachment surgery can be done in your doctor's office.
More severe detachments may require surgery in a hospital operating room. Such procedures include:
Tractional retinal detachments may be watched for a while before surgery. If surgery is needed, a vitrectomy is usually done.
See also: Retinal detachment repair
How well you do after a retinal detachment depends on the location and extent of the detachment and early treatment. If the macula was not damaged, the outlook with treatment can be excellent.
Most retinal detachments can be repaired, but not all of them. You may not get back all of your vision after surgery.
A retinal detachment causes loss of vision. Surgery to repair it may help restore some or all of your vision.
A retinal detachment is an urgent problem that requires medical attention within 24 hours of the first symptoms.
Use protective eye wear to prevent eye trauma. Control your blood sugar carefully if you have diabetes. See your eye care specialist at least yearly, especially if you have risk factors for retinal detachment.
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Williams GA, Aaberg TM Jr. Techniques of scleral buckling. In: Tasman W, Jaeger EA, eds. Duane’s Ophthalmology. 15th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2009:chap 59.
Sanislo SR, Blumenkranz MS. Diabetic vitrectomy. In: Tasman W, Jaeger EA, eds. Duane’s Ophthalmology. 15th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins; 2009:chap 57.