Retinal Tears & Detachments
The retina is a thin layer of light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. Due to its delicate structure, the retina can be susceptible to tears, which can cause symptoms like sudden flashes of light and floaters. If left untreated, a retinal tear can lead to retinal detachment, potentially resulting in complete vision loss. If you experience sudden changes in your vision, it’s crucial to seek medical care as soon as possible.
Retinal Tears
Retinal tears are breaks or holes in the retina that often occur due to a condition known as posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). As people age, the vitreous gel shrinks and becomes more liquid. In some cases, this sticky vitreous may adhere to the retina, and as it shrinks away, it can pull on the retina, creating a tear.
Retinal Detachments
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the back of the eye. This can happen after a retinal tear caused by vitreous shrinkage, but it may also result from fluid buildup or scarring due to other conditions like diabetic retinopathy. Retinal detachments are considered medical emergencies and can result in permanent vision loss, making it crucial to seek medical care as soon as possible.
Retinal detachments are commonly caused by tears associated with PVD. Other forms of retinal detachments, such as exudative and tractional retinal detachments, occur due to fluid accumulation in the retina and complications from diabetes.
Retinal Tear and Detachment Symptoms
The main symptoms of retinal tears and detachments are eye flashes and floaters. Eye flashes appear as spots of light in your field of vision, while floaters look like shapes or shadows that drift across your sight. Occasional eye flashes and floaters are typically not a cause for concern and are common as we age. However, a sudden increase in their frequency may indicate a retinal tear or detachment.
Retinal tears and detachments usually do not cause pain, and because flashes and floaters are relatively normal, it can be easy to dismiss these symptoms. However, time is of the essence when it comes to treating tears and especially detachments. If you have any concerns about your vision, it's important to err on the side of caution and seek help as soon as possible.
Retinal Tear and Detachment Risk Factors
Risk factors for retinal tears and detachment include:
- Extreme nearsightedness (myopia)
- Lattice degeneration (thinning of the peripheral retina)
- Advanced age
- A family history of tears or detachments
- Previous eye surgeries, such as cataract surgery
- Severe eye injuries or trauma
- A history of previous retinal tears or detachments
Additionally, certain conditions, such as diabetic retinopathy and retinoschisis, also increase the risk.
Diagnosing Retinal Tears and Detachments
Retina specialists typically rely on a combination of symptoms and in-office tests to diagnose retinal tears and detachments. The primary method they use is a comprehensive eye exam that includes pupil dilation. They may also perform an ultrasound if they can’t get a clear view of the retina. The sooner a retinal tear or detachment is confirmed and treated, the better your vision outcomes will be.
Treating Retinal Tears and Detachments
The most common treatments for retinal tears include laser photocoagulation and cryopexy. These procedures help attach the retina to the underlying tissue, stabilizing its position against the back of the eye.
A surgical procedure called a scleral buckle is a standard treatment for retinal detachment. In this treatment, a small sponge is placed against the retina to hold it against the sclera (the white part of the eye), and a thin band secures everything in place.
Another treatment for retinal detachment is pneumatic retinopexy. During this procedure, a retina specialist injects an expanding gas bubble into the eye, which gently pushes the retina back into its proper position.
In some cases, treatment may include vitrectomy surgery, in which the vitreous gel is removed from the eye, making it easier for a retina specialist to access and repair the detached retina.
Schedule a Consultation for Retinal Tears and Detachments Today
At Northeast Wisconsin Retina Associates, our team of experienced retina specialists can diagnose and treat a wide variety of retinal conditions, including retinal tears and detachments. Request an appointment today today at one of our retina centers in Green Bay, Appleton, North Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Stevens Point, or Sheboygan.