Retinal Detachment (RD)

The retina is a complex structure of nerve cells that lines the interior walls of your eyes. It functions much like the film in a camera, allowing you to see clearly by responding sensitively to light stimuli.

A retinal detachment (RD) is a separation of this light-sensitive membrane (the retina) in the back of the eye from its supporting layers which causes vision to be impaired.

What are the Causes of Retinal Detachment?

The most common cause of a retinal detachment is a tear in the retina (a rhegmatogenous RD), which can occur in the event of a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD). A PVD is a natural change in the eye during adulthood, when the vitreous gel that fills the eye begins to liquify and pull away from the retinal tissue, causing the vitreous to separate from the retina. During this process the retina can be pulled to such an extent that it will tear, allowing liquid vitreous to enter under the retina and detaching it from the lower layer of the eye. Patients with high levels of myopia (nearsightedness) have an increased risk of experiencing a retinal detachment. Forty percent of all retinal detachments occur in myopic eyes; the higher the refractive error the greater the risk of RD.

The retina can also tear secondary to other preexistent eye diseases.

What are the symptoms of Retinal Detachment?

The classic alarming symptoms reported in about 60% of patients with a spontaneous rhegmatogenous RD are:

• Flashing lights (photopsia)

• Vitreous floaters

• Peripheral visual field defect which may progress to involve central vision

Treatment options for Retinal Detachment

Fortunately, retinal detachment can typically be treated if caught early enough with a procedure such as retinal reattachment surgery

Therefore, it's important to visit a doctor promptly if you are experiencing any symptoms associated with retinal detachment - such as floaters or flashes of light - to maximize treatment success and decrease the risk of further deterioration.

If you are looking for surgical treatment options for Retinal detachment, plan a consultation with Prof. Marco Mura at the Department of Ophthalmology Arcispedale Sant’Anna in Ferrara or at Casa di Cura Toniolo in Bologna, Italy.