Retinal Detachment

Tear in the retina allowing the vitreous fluid to separate the neurosensory
retina from the pigmented epithelium underneath
ETIOLOGY
■ Spontaneous retinal detachment associated with nearsightedness, family
history, prior cataract surgery, retinopathy (diabetes, sickle cell disease)
■ Also caused by trauma.

SYMPTOMS/EXAM
■ Patients typically describe flashing lights and floaters, sometimes described
as “spider webs” or “coal dust.”
■ Visual field defects are a late symptom.
■ The retina appears like dunes on a beach or a curtain folded forward.
TREATMENT
■ Ophthalmology consultation
■ Urgency depends on visual acuity.
■ If the macula is still attached and acuity intact, surgical repair by a retina
specialist is recommended within 24–48 hours (to prevent macula from
detaching also).
■ If the vision is poor, the macula is likely already detached, and repair is
less urgent (within 5–7 days acceptable).