Retinal detachment is the separation of the neurosensory retina from the underlying tissue (pigment epithelium). This causes fluid to accumulate between the two.
There are three processes that can cause retinal detachment:
- Rhegmatogenous type: it is the most frequent and is caused by a retinal tear that may appear after vitreous detachment.
- Tractional type: It is typical of proliferative diabetic retinopathy.
- Exudative type: Occurs when there are vascular permeability problems or secondary to tumors.
Symptoms that may alert us of retinal detachment
The most frequent symptom of retinal detachment in the rhegmatogenous type is the vision of luminous flashes, sometimes repetitive and perceived in the same sector of the visual field. This may be synonymous with the presence of retinal rupture, which may eventually lead to retinal detachment. However, flashes of light do not always appear as a symptom.
Another characteristic symptomatology is the appearance of a shadow, similar to a curtain, which prevents partial or even total vision of one eye, which is a symptom of possible detachment.
If any of these symptoms appear, it is advisable to go urgently to an ophthalmology specialist so that he/she can examine the retina under pupil dilation and with an ultrasound scan it will be easier to diagnose.
How to treat retinal detachment and what results will be obtained
Retinal detachment should always be treated surgically, since it requires the repositioning and adaptation of the retina, which can be done externally (with identation) or internally (with vitrectomy). However, sometimes a combination of both techniques is necessary.
To achieve adhesion, either a thermal lesion is induced by laser or a scar stimulus is generated by freezing (cryotherapy). Sometimes, depending on the case, the use of intraocular gases or intraocular silicone oil may be necessary.
Preventive laser treatment of uncomplicated retinal tears with detachment is sometimes advised.
The degree of recovery and its rapidity will depend on each case. Normally, the prognosis of retinal detachment depends on its extension, whether or not it affects the point of maximum vision (macula) and the time of evolution.
Can retinal detachment be prevented?
Annual ophthalmologic check-ups with pupillary dilation are recommended to check the retinal periphery. The laser will be applied on the degenerative lesions susceptible to cause a detachment.
Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for the process to evolve correctly.