Ophthalmology - Retinal Detachment Flashcards
What is retinal detachment?
Involves the** neurosensory layer** of the retina separating from the retinal pigment epithelium (the base layer attached to the choroid)
What usually causes retinal detachment?
A retinal tear allowing vitreous fluid to get under the neurosensory retina
How does retinal detachment affect blood supply?
Can disrupt blood supply and cause permanent damage to the photoreceptors
Sight-threatening
List the risk factors for retinal detachment
- Lattice degeneration (thinning of theretina)
- PVD
- Trauma
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal malignancy
- Family history
How does retinal detachment typically present?
- Peripheral vision loss (often sudden)
- Blurred or distorted vision
- Flashes and floaters
What should patients presenting with painless flashes and floaters have?
A detailed assessment to detect retinal tears and retinal detachment
What is the management approach for suspected retinal detachment?
Immediate ophthalmology referral
What is the aim of managing retinal tears?
To create adhesions between the retina and the choroid
- Laser therapy
- Cryotherapy
What is the primary goal of managing retinal detachment?
To reattach the retina and reduce any traction or pressure can be atached by
- Vitrectomy
- Scleral buckle
- Pneumatic retinopexy
What does vitrectomy involve?
Keyhole surgery removing vitreous fluid, fixing the tear, and inserting gas or oil
How does scleral buckling work?
Uses a silicone ‘buckle’ to put pressure on the sclera from outside the eye
Squashes eye inwards to reconnect layers of retina
Essentially squeezes eye together
What is pneumatic retinopexy?
Injecting a gas bubble into the vitreous body to press the separated layer back into place
