Retina Detachment
A retinal detachment occurs when the retina—the thin, light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye—separates from its normal position. This is a serious condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly.
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Retinal detachment is relatively uncommon, affecting about 1 in 10,000 people per year. It is more likely to occur in people with high myopia (nearsightedness), a family history of retinal detachment, a history of eye trauma, or after cataract surgery.
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Common Signs of Retina Detachment:
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Sudden appearance of flashes of light in your vision
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A sudden increase in floaters (spots or cobweb-like shapes)
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A shadow, curtain, or gray veil across part of your vision
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Sudden blurred or distorted vision
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How Retina Detachment Can Be Corrected or Managed:
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Treatment for retinal detachment is urgent and always requires surgery to reattach the retina and preserve vision. The exact procedure depends on the type, size, and location of the detachment:
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Laser or cryotherapy (freezing treatment): If the retina is only torn but not fully detached, a laser or freezing treatment may be used to seal the tear and prevent progression.
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Pneumatic retinopexy: A small gas bubble is injected into the eye to push the retina back into place. Laser or cryotherapy is then used to seal the tear.
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Scleral buckle: A silicone band is placed around the outside of the eye to gently press it inward, helping the retina reattach.
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Vitrectomy: The vitreous gel inside the eye is removed and replaced with a gas bubble or silicone oil to flatten the retina against the back of the eye.
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Success rates: With prompt treatment, about 90% of retinal detachments can be repaired with one or more surgeries, though final vision often depends on how quickly treatment is received and whether the macula (the central retina) was affected.
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