Various methods may be used depending on how much fluid has seeped behind the retina and for how long the retina itself has been deprived of nourishment. An emergency operation is required to reattach i detached retina to the wall of the eye. The ophthalmologist uses a small frozen probe above the retinal tear to produce inflammation that eventually creates scar tissue. It has the same purpose as the laser treatment. This outpatient procedure, technically called cryoretinopexy, is also performed under a local anesthetic. When the scar forms, it prevents any further leaking of vitreous humor from behind the retina.įreezing. The edges of the torn tissue receive laser bums. A mirrored contact lens is placed in the patients eye, enabling the doctor to see where the retina is torn. To repair a tear in the retina before it becomes detached, photocoagulation may be performed under a local anesthetic in the doctors office. Depending on the extent of the retinal damage, several surgical treatments can be considered. There are no drug treatments for detached retina. With this procedure, a doctor is able to detect tiny tears at the edge of the retina. A technique known as indirect ophthalmoscopy, invented in the 19th century, is used to get a panoramic view of the retina, including the outer periphery. Diagnostic Studies and Proceduresĭiagnosis is based on an examination of the eye with an ophthalmoscope, which gives the doctor a close-up view of the retina. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of these symptoms by a specialist can prevent an eventual emergency. The result of this seepage is a clouding of vision. If the pull leads to a small tear in the retina, blood from damaged blood vessels will enter the vitreous gel through this slight opening. When vitreous gel begins to peel away to a greater extent, it pulls on the retina and dazzling flashes of fight, or ‘star's appear. As the gel liquifies, it peels away from the retina and forms the threadlike “floaters” familiar to millions of people as harmless phenomena that come and go without any consequence and for no clear reasons This damage can occur if the vitreous gel, or humor, in the center of the eye begins to shrink. The first stage in retinal detachment may be a hole or tear in the retina. When individuals are under stress, the capillaries may become increasingly weakened, making the possibility of detachment an ever-present danger. A California study(*) of 33 people who had suffered detached retinas concluded that the problem can be precipitated by highly stressful situations that cause a sudden surge in blood pressure.Īs pressure increases, fluid is forced from the capillaries behind the retina, causing blisters to form on the retinas surface. Extremely high stress may also be a factor. Retinal detachment can sometimes be a complication of diabetes, high blood pressure, and cataract surgery. (Athletes, especially boxers, are particularly vulnerable to retinal detachment.)

Fortunately, advances in repairing minor retinal tears have been preventing the more serious eventuality of complete retinal detachment.Ī retina may become detached as the result of a cyst or tumor, a hemorrhage, acute infection, extreme nearsightedness, the aging of eye tissues, or a severe blow to the eye.

It must be reattached as soon as possible to prevent irreversible loss of sight. If a retina becomes detached from the tissue at the back of the eyeball, it is deprived of its blood supply which is carrying essential oxygen and nutrients.

Detached retina