Retinal Detachment in India
What is Retina?
The retina, a fragile inner lining of the eye approximately 1 millimeter thick, is susceptible to several sight-threatening issues. Damage to the retina can lead to varying degrees of vision loss. Conditions like diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, macular degeneration, and retinal detachment are common afflictions of the retina. Any of these issues has the potential to cause total blindness.
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment occurs when the retina, situated beneath the eye's tissue, separates from its attachments. This detachment is often a result of a retinal tear, hole, or break. A retinal break can occur when the vitreous gel loses its attachment to the retina, typically happening in the peripheral regions of the retina. As the vitreous gel undergoes the natural aging process, it first contracts and then becomes more liquid. A retinal tear may occur when the liquid vitreous gel exerts a pull on the retina. If this liquid passes through the tear, it can lead to a retinal detachment, causing the retina to detach from the back of the eye.
In retinal detachment surgery, the aim is to reattach the retina to the back of the eye, closing any holes or breaks that may compromise its attachment. When there is a hole or break in the retina, fluid accumulation beneath it weakens the attachment, necessitating surgical intervention.
Symptoms of Retinal Detachment
Causes for Retinal Detachment
Treatment of Retinal Detachment
Vitrectomy : The vitrectomy surgical procedure is designed for significant tears. It involves the removal of the vitreous gel, which is then replaced with a saline solution.
Freezing (cryopexy) or Laser (thermal) : Early diagnosis is crucial in both of these procedures as it allows for the repair of a tear.
Pneumatic Retinopexy : Surgery is applicable when the tear is small and easily closable. The doctor injects a minuscule gas bubble into the patient's eye, which expands and applies pressure against the retina. This pressure helps in closing the tear. Sealing the tear can be achieved through methods such as cryopexy or laser.
Scleral Buckle : In this procedure, a silicone band is stitched around the white of the eye, also known as the sclera. The sclera is then gently pushed against the tear until it heals. The silicone band remains permanently attached and is invisible. Additionally, thermal treatment may be necessary to effectively seal the tear.
Retinal Tears
Retinal tears typically do not cause pain. Symptoms such as a multitude of flashes, floaters, and diminished vision are indicative of retinal tears. Early detection is crucial to prevent worsening. Laser treatment is employed to address retinal tears and thwart their progression into retinal detachment. The treatment's objective is to create a scar around the tear, preventing the vitreous gel from leaking through. This approach not only restores normal vision but also safeguards against potential serious vision loss conditions.
Retinal Holes
As age advances, the vitreous body contracts and separates from the retina. Loosely attached to the retina, the vitreous body can pull away, potentially causing a tear at a weak spot in the retina. Over time, retinal holes and tears may also develop due to the degeneration of retinal tissue. Typically occurring in the retinal periphery, these tears can affect vision. Interestingly, retinal tears often manifest without symptoms. Their formation may be associated with the appearance of floaters, cobwebs, smudges, and sudden flashes of light within the eye. Doctors can seal these holes through small procedures such as laser or cryotherapy.
Vitreo Retinal Surgery
Vitreo-retinal surgery is a specialized surgical procedure aimed at treating disorders of the macula, retina, and vitreous. Ophthalmologists employ specialized instruments, solutions, and techniques to address conditions like macular degeneration, uveitis, retinal detachment, and diabetic retinopathy. Issues with the vitreous and retina can lead to vision problems or even blindness. Vitreo-retinal surgery has proven highly beneficial in preventing severe vision loss.
Epiretinal Membrane Surgery
Epiretinal membrane, also known as surface wrinkle retinopathy, macular pucker, and preretinal fibrosis, is an eye disease that leads to distorted and blurred vision. This condition can be associated with other eye issues such as eye injury, retinal detachment, and problems with retinal blood vessels. Unlike some diseases, epiretinal membrane is not connected to other bodily issues. Visual symptoms arise from the contraction of the epiretinal membrane, causing wrinkled or distorted vision. Patients may experience a loss of central acuity or blurred vision.
Surgery for epiretinal membrane involves the removal of the membrane, and it is typically reserved for cases with severe symptoms. If both eyes are affected, using a magnifier can enhance near vision for the patient. Strengthening bifocals is another option to improve vision. The surgical procedure for membrane removal is known as vitrectomy surgery.
Retinal Laser Surgery
Laser surgery is employed to address various retinal conditions. A focused laser beam is directed onto the retina, and the entire procedure is painless, typically taking about ten to thirty minutes. The objective is to prevent vision loss. This method is utilized for treating conditions such as retinal tears and holes, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and other retinal vascular disorders.
Cost of Retinal Surgery
The cost of retinal surgery in India is significantly lower compared to other countries. Moreover, all surgeons in India are well-trained and certified, ensuring a high standard of medical care.
Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services
Start your Journey to Good Health With The Third Eye Medical Services
