Retinal Detatchment

Retinal detachment is a condition in which the light sensitive layer of the eye (retina) separates from the underlying eye wall & hence loses its function.

The important cause is the presence of holes or tears in the retina. These can occur in an otherwise healthy retina or in pre-existing weak areas called lattice degeneration. These holes/tears can lead to retinal detachment after variable period of time & in some, not at all.

Presence of high degree of minus number (myopia), occurrence of retinal detachment in other eye, occurrence of retinal detachment in blood relatives, cataract surgery, injury to the eye, etc are some of the factors that increase the risk of retinal detachment in eyes with holes/tears/weak areas.

The retinal holes/tears/weak areas can be sealed by laser or cryotherapy( Freezing) & thus prevent them from leading to retinal detachment.

Successful sealing of visible holes/tears/weak areas does not guarantee against possibility of new ones developing in the future. Rarely the treated areas can also reopen due to some changes in the vitreous gel.

Symptoms for which you should seek emergency review:

• 1.Sudden occurrence of shower of black/red spots/floaters.
• 2. Sudden persistent flashes of light.
• 3. Sudden occurrence of curtain/veil in front of the eye.
• 4. Sudden blurring of vision.

There are 2 different techniques of treatment:

1.Laser: This uses laser energy to produce strong adhesion between the retina & the

outer wall of the eye around the treated area. No injection is needed. It is on an outpatient basis & is fairly simple. If extensive treatment is needed, 2 sittings may be advised. No bandaging is needed & one can resume normal activities immediately.

2. Cryotherapy: This involves freezing the areas that need to be strengthened. Injection

anesthesia may be needed to complete the treatment & hence bandaging may be done for one day. Some amount of lid swelling & redness may be expected for 3-4 days depending upon amount of treatment. Mild blurring of vision is also expected for a few days. Drops or ointment may be prescribed for a few days. It is a very simple procedure & does not by itself cause any complications in most cases.