Retinal Detachment

Retinal Detachment is a separation of the retina (the inner nervous tunic of the eye) from the choroid (the middle, vascular tunic of the eye) in the back of the eye, usually resulting from a hole in the retina that allows the vitreous humor (fluid) to leak between the choroid and the retina.

A retinal detachment is a medical emergency requiring immediate evaluation. Contact our office to schedule an urgent care exam

Signs and Symptoms

In most cases, retinal detachment develops slowly. The first symptom is often the sudden appearance of a large number of spots floating loosely in the eye. The person may not seek help, because the number of spots tends to decrease during the days and weeks before detachment. The person may also notice a curious sensation of flashing lights as the eye is moved.

Because the retina does not contain sensory nerves that relay sensations of pain, the condition is painless.

Detachment usually begins at the thin peripheral edge of the retina and extends gradually beneath the thicker, more central areas. The person perceives a shadow that begins laterally and grows in size, slowly encroaching on central vision. As long as the center of the retina is unaffected, the vision when the person is looking straight ahead, is normal; but when the center becomes affected, the eyesight is distorted, wavy and indistinct.

Detection and Diagnosis

If the retina is torn and retinal detachment has not yet occurred, a detachment may be prevented by prompt treatment. Treatment is aimed at closing retinal tears (so as to facilitate reattachment of the retina). Once the retina becomes detached, it must be repaired surgically.

Retinal detachments do not improve without treatment. Retinal detachment repair is necessary to prevent permanent vision loss.