About Retinal Tears
A retina tear usually develop as a result of vitreous gel traction or tugging on the retina. The most common cause of a retinal tear is due a posterior vitreous separation, when the vitreous gel shrinks and pulls away from the retina as we age. A retinal tear can lead to a retinal detachment and vision loss.
Retinal Tear Symptoms
Patients often describe a sudden onset of flashing lights like lightening and/or small, black floaters in their visual field. Some patients do not have any symptoms at all.
Diagnosis and Tests for Retinal Tears
AIn order to determine if a patient has a retinal tear, a retina specialist will have to perform a dilated retinal exam to carefully look at the entire outside of the retina to see if a tear is present.
Retinal Tear Treatment
Because a retinal tear can lead to a retinal detachment, they are often treated with laser photocoagulation or cryopexy. During this procedure, a scar is created around the tear to form a barricade and potentially prevent extension of the retinal tear or detachment.
Here is a great tool for patients who plan to travel or adjust elevations after having surgery – Elevation Calculator – please consult your physician before traveling.
FAQs
What’s the difference between a retinal tear and retinal detachment?
A retinal tear occurs as the vitreous become separated from the retina. A tear, if left untreated, can become a retinal detachment which is more dangerous.
Do all retinal tear need to be treated?
Some retinal tears do not require treatment. Your doctor will discuss which treatment, if any, is recommended if you have a retinal tear. However, because a retinal tear can lead to a detachment, it is important to consult a doctor if you notice symptoms like flashes or floaters.
Who is at risk for a retinal tear?
Because a retinal tear is usually caused by posterior vitreous separation, those at risk for vitreous separation are at higher risk of a tear. This includes patients that are highly myopic (near-sighted), are older than 60 years of age, or have had intraocular surgery or injections.
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Other Conditions Treated at RCA
Our ophthalmologists are experienced in diagnosing and treating many retinal conditions.
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