Preserve Vision With Retinal Detachment Surgery

Retinal detachment is an eye condition that should not be taken for granted since such a condition can lead to loss of vision if not treated the soonest. In Singapore, studies suggest that it is something that is encountered by 1 in 10,000 people. The good news is that retinal detachment surgery can be performed to reattach the retina. This, in turn, can play a key role in preserving vision. 

Understanding the said condition, its symptoms, and treatment options, among others, is essential when it comes to maintaining vision as well as eye health. Read on to find out more. 

What is Retinal Detachment?

In general, retinal detachment is a painless yet serious eye condition that happens when the retina, or the layer of tissue that can be found at the back of the eye is detached from the tissues that surround and support it. As mentioned earlier, if not properly treated, it can have a negative impact on one’s vision and, in turn, lead to blindness. 

What are the Different Types of Retinal Detachment? 

There are three types of retinal detachment and they are elaborated below. 

• Rhegmatogenous

This is the most common kind of retinal detachment and it is usually developed by elderly patients. Here, a small tear in the retina lets vitreous humour (gel-like fluid) travel through the tear and accumulate behind the retina. 

Afterward, the said fluid pushes the retina away, leading to the detachment from the back of the eye. 

• Tractional 

This type of detached retina is common among diabetes patients since high blood sugar can cause significant damage to the blood vessels, which may lead to scar tissue. Scar tissue on the retina may pull it away from the back of the eye; it may get bigger and further tug the retina from the back of the eye. 

• Exudative

This type of retinal detachment takes place when fluid accumulates behind the retina despite the absence of a retinal tear. In the long run, it can push the retina away from underlying tissues. 

One of the primary causes of fluid buildup are swelling at the back of the eye or leaking blood vessels–symptoms of a condition–called uveitis or eye inflammation. 

What are the Symptoms of Retinal Detachment? 

As mentioned earlier, retinal detachment is painless. In a number of cases, the symptoms develop prior to the said condition or before it worsens. Some of the most notable symptoms are similar to retinal tear symptoms, and they are as follows: 

• Floaters

The sudden appearance of floaters or small specks or squiggly lines that often drift through one’s field of vision. 

• Flashes of light (photopsias)

Photopsias or flashes of light in one or both eyes

• Curtain effect 

An obstruction that is similar to a shadow or curtain in one’s central or peripheral vision. 

• Blurred vision

Blurred vision or a noticeable drop in visual sharpness

• Straight lines that appear curved

Objects that usually have straight lines appear curved or wavy

What to Expect During Diagnosis

Prior to retinal detachment surgery, a medical practitioner is going to perform a thorough diagnosis to determine the cause of the said condition. He or she may perform the following: 

• Retinal exam

A healthcare professional may utilise a specialised instrument that is complemented with a bright light as well as special lenses to check the back of the eye. This is necessary to achieve a detailed view of the whole eye. This allows him or her to have a clear understanding of the tears, detachments, holes, and so forth.

• Ultrasound imaging

Ultrasound imaging may be performed to see if bleeding has taken place in the eye.

What to Expect After Retinal Detachment Surgery?

Having an idea of what to expect after surgery and during the recovery process is essential when it comes to achieving the best possible outcome. 

• Hospital Stay

In most retinal detachment surgeries, patients usually go home the same day, but in certain cases, he or she may be required to stay for additional observation. 

• Eye patch  

Patients may be required to wear an eye patch a day or two after surgery. This is essential to prevent infections and other untoward conditions from developing. 

• Discomfort 

A little pain and discomfort is common after a retinal detachment surgery, but this is not a cause of concern since it can be easily managed with over-the-counter medicine. 

Summing up 

Retinal detachment is a condition that should not be taken for granted. In line with this, individuals who develop it should immediately seek medical attention so as to prevent it from worsening. 

Depending on the result of the diagnosis, retinal detachment surgery may be necessary. In line with this, having a clear understanding of the said procedure is essential when it comes to improving eye health and boosting the chances of eye preservation.