Retinal detachment, commonly known as retinal tear, presents symptoms like floaters and light flashes. To prevent permanent vision loss, it is crucial to seek an examination by an ophthalmologist specializing in the retina when symptoms are noticed.
Can Lead to Vision Loss
Retinal detachment, which can occur in patients with peripheral retinal degeneration, may also develop due to eye trauma, advanced age, or high myopia. Retinal detachment usually occurs above middle age but can appear at any age. If not diagnosed and treated early, it may lead to permanent vision loss.
Early Diagnosis is Crucial
If surgery is deemed necessary by the physician, the decision on the surgical method will again be made by the examining ophthalmologist. During the examination, to identify the deteriorated, perforated, or torn areas in the retina tissue and surrounding areas, the pupils are dilated using drops, and the eye is thoroughly examined with a bio microscope using various intraocular lenses. If the detachment area cannot be identified for any reason, an eye ultrasound is used.
Surgery May Be Required
One of the methods used in detachment surgery is known as external indentation method (scleral buckling method). In this method, a piece made of hard silicone is placed on the eye wall, aligned with the retina tear site, closing the retina tear. After the tear closes, the fluid caused by the detachment is absorbed, completing the healing process. If there are multiple tears causing retinal detachment, if they are large, if their placement is unusual, if the tear cannot be located, if there are accompanying other conditions (such as intraocular bleeding), or time has passed since the detachment occurred, performing a vitrectomy may be necessary.
Vitrectomy involves the surgical removal of the gel-like substance (vitreous) filling the eye and replacing it with fluid, air, gas, or silicone oil. Following vitrectomy surgery, it is crucial to use the drops prescribed by the physician and adhere to the physician's recommendations.
Who Should Be More Careful Against the Risk of Retinal Tear?
Retinal tearing and the resulting retinal detachment are observed more frequently in certain risk groups. Although retinal tears in the eye are seen in advanced ages, risk factors may also be present in younger individuals. In individuals with high myopia, the retina tissue may be thinner than normal, increasing the risk of tearing. Additionally, those who have previously experienced eye trauma, individuals with a family history of retinal tearing, and those who have undergone retina or cataract surgery carry this risk.
Individuals who show symptoms of retinal tearing should consult an ophthalmologist without delay. If symptoms are detected early, retinal tearing treatment can be more easily performed. Permanent vision loss particularly occurs as a result of the prolonged lack of nourishment of the retina layer. Therefore, regular retina examination is important to protect eye health.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes retinal tear?
Retinal tear typically results from age-related degeneration, high myopia, eye traumas, and intraocular surgeries. The retina layer may tear when it thins or encounters mechanical stress. Additionally, the age-related deterioration of the vitreous substance filling the eye and its separation from the retina can lay the groundwork for tearing. This situation is particularly common among individuals over the age of 50.
How is a retinal tear diagnosed?
The most notable symptoms of a retinal tear include sudden flashes of light, floating black spots in the eye (floaters), the presence of a gray or black curtain in the field of vision, and sudden vision loss. If these symptoms develop suddenly in the eye, a retina examination should be conducted. Ignoring retinal tear symptoms can lead to retinal detachment.
Can a retinal tear cause blindness?
Yes, if untreated, a retinal tear can lead to blindness. The retina is one of the most delicate structures of the eye, composed of nerve cells that perceive and transmit light to the brain. A tear in this layer and the potential subsequent retinal detachment can inhibit the nourishment of retinal cells, resulting in permanent damage.
How is a retinal tear treated?
Retinal tear treatment is carried out using laser photocoagulation, cryotherapy, or surgical procedures depending on the size and location of the tear. In tears detected at an early stage, laser treatment is often sufficient. However, if retinal detachment has developed, more advanced surgical interventions such as vitrectomy may be needed. Adhering to regular follow-ups and medical advice after treatment increases the chance of success.