A Retinal Detachment (RD) is one of the most serious conditions an eye can face, demanding immediate attention from a Vitreo-Retina Surgery specialist. When the light-sensitive retinal tissue pulls away from its underlying support, it loses its oxygen and nutrient supply, leading to rapid, permanent vision loss.
At Mechi Netralaya, we treat Retinal Detachment as an ocular emergency. Our goal is to perform sight-saving surgery as quickly as possible to maximize the chance of visual recovery.
Recognizing the Emergency
If you experience any of these symptoms, seek urgent care at a Vitreo-Retina Clinic:
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Sudden Increase in Floaters: New onset of many tiny specks or strings drifting across your vision.
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Flashes of Light (Photopsia): Brief, bright flashes, often seen in the periphery.
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A Curtain or Shadow: A dark veil or gray curtain that moves across your field of vision, starting from the periphery.
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Sudden Loss of Vision: Severe or complete loss of vision in one eye.
The Vitrectomy Solution for RD
The most common and effective procedure for reattaching the retina today is Pars Plana Vitrectomy (PPV), a highly specialized form of Vitreo-Retina Surgery.
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Vitreous Removal: Through tiny incisions, the surgeon uses micro-instruments to carefully remove the vitreous gel, which often pulls on the retina and initiates the detachment.
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Membrane Peeling: Any scar tissue (epiretinal membranes) that may be tugging on the retina is meticulously removed to flatten the tissue completely.
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Fluid Drainage: Fluid that has accumulated beneath the retina is drained out.
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Sealing Tears: The tears or breaks that caused the detachment are sealed using a laser (photocoagulation) or freezing treatment (cryopexy).
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Tamponade Agent: A special medical gas (e.g., C3F8) or silicone oil is injected to push the retina against the eye wall and hold it in place while it heals.
Post-Surgery Recovery and Outlook
Recovery from Vitreo-Retina Surgery for RD requires patience, particularly if a gas bubble was used. You will be asked to maintain a specific head position (often face-down) for several days to ensure the bubble applies pressure correctly. The gas bubble will gradually dissipate, being replaced by the eye’s natural fluid.
Early intervention is key to a good prognosis. If the macula (the center of the retina) was not detached, the chances of excellent visual recovery are much higher.
If you suspect a retinal detachment, please contact our Vitreo-Retina emergency number immediately.
