Retinal Detachment

The retina rests against and is surrounded by the choroid, a layer of the eye containing a system of blood vessels which supply the retina with nourishment. When the retina is separated from this layer of the eye, it is said to be detached. In most cases, this detachment is the result of a tear or hole in the retinal tissue. Fluid passes through the opening in the retina and separates the retina from the underlying choroid.

Open-angle glaucoma, the most common form of glaucoma, affects about 3 million Americans–half of whom don't know they have it. It has no symptoms at first, but over years it can steal your sight. With early treatment, you can often protect your eyes against serious vision loss and blindness.

What are the symptoms of retinal detachment?
Pain is not usually associated with retinal detachment. The first symptoms, depending on the extent of the detachment, may be the obstruction of peripheral vision, much like a shade being pulled over your eye. Extremely blurred vision is another typical symptom. This can often be associated with black spots, cobwebs, floaters or flashing sparks of light. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your eye doctor immediately.

How is retinal detachment treated?
Retinal detachments are generally treated by surgery under general anesthesia in the hospital. Prognosis for recovery depends upon the extent and duration of the detachment.

Retinal Tears
Retinal tears (tears in the retina) when detected early enough can be treated in your eye doctors office without hospitalization