A retinal detachment occurs when the retina peels away from its underlying supportive tissue, disrupting visual signals. Symptoms often include sudden flashes of light, new floaters, and a curtain-like shadow over your visual field. Without swift surgical intervention, detachment may lead to permanent vision loss.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing retinal detachment involves a comprehensive eye examination, including:
- Dilated retinal examination to visualise and assess the area of detachment
- B-scan ultrasound, particularly useful when vision is obstructed by opacities like cataracts, to confirm diagnosis and guide treatment planning
Treatment options
Laser or Cryopexy
Used to seal tears or holes in the retina by creating scar tissue that reattaches the retina to the eye wall
Pneumatic Retinopexy
A gas bubble is injected into the eye to push the retina back against the wall, followed by laser or freezing treatment to seal the tear
Scleral Buckling
A flexible band is placed around the eye to gently press the wall inward and relieve traction on the retina
Vitrectomy
Removal of the vitreous gel, often combined with gas or silicone oil injection, to flatten the detachment and allow retinal reattachment
These surgeries are tailored to the type, location, and severity of detachment for the best possible visual outcome.
