Retinal detachment is a condition where the retina detaches from the underlying supporting tissue.
Definition
Retinal detachment is a condition where the retina detaches from the underlying supporting tissue. This detachment of the retina will result in impaired retinal function.
If retinal detachment is not treated, the greater your risk of permanent vision loss in the affected eye.
Symptoms
Retinal detachment is painless. However, signs and symptoms almost always appear before the disease occurs or enters advanced stages. Signs of retinal detachment include:
- Black spots appear that float in the field of vision
- Flashes of light appear in one or both eyes
- Blurred vision
- There is a kind of curtain that covers part of the eye
Complications
The worst condition that can be experienced by retinal detachment patients is loss of vision or blindness.
Reason
The main causes of retinal detachment are:
- A shriveled vitreous. The vitreous is a clear viscous fluid that fills the inside of the eye
- Diabetes
- Wounds or inflammation
Your risk of developing a retinal detachment increases if you:
- Over 50 years old
- Have had retinal detachment before
- Have a family member with retinal detachment
- Suffering from nearsightedness ( myopia )
- Have you ever had an eye injury?
- Have you ever had other eye diseases or inflammation?
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of retinal detachment is determined from an interview and several examinations. The doctor will examine the inside of the eye with an ophthalmoscope. This ophthalmoscope will provide a detailed picture, allowing the doctor to see retinal holes, tears, and so on.
In addition, there is also an ultrasound imaging examination. Doctors may use this test if bleeding occurs in the eye.
Treatment
If the retina is torn but not yet detached, then retinal detachment can be prevented by laser light action. The use of lasers can create a burning effect on the retinal tear, causing a scar to form and the torn retina can adhere to the underlying tissue.
In rare cases, when the laser cannot be used, cryopexy may be performed instead. Cryopexy is the act of applying cold temperatures with an ice needle to attach the retina to the underlying tissue.
Meanwhile, if the retina is detached then the patient requires surgery. Some of these types of surgery are:
- Scleral buckling
Silicone rubber suture on the outer white of the eye (sclera). This silicone rubber will make the retina stick to the wall of the eye again.
- Vitrektomil
Surgery to remove the vitreous from inside the eyeball.
- Pneumatic retinopexy
Injecting gas into the eye, causing a bubble to form which will then close the tear duct. The bubbles will be absorbed and allow the torn retina to reattach. According To JJMedicine Retinal Detachment | Types, Risk Factors, Pathophysiology, Signs & Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment