Floaters, Flashes & Retinal Detachment

The retina is a layer of tissue at the back of the eye. When it is detached from the layer of blood vessels that provide it with oxygen, the retina may deteriorate, causing loss of vision in the affected eye.

A detached retina is a serious condition that will cause blindness if not immediately treated. Retinal detachment occurs when the retina is pulled away from the back of the eye (near the choroid) where it normally resides. The choroid is essential to the retina because it provides nutrients as well as oxygen to this layer. The retina serves as a liner for the inside of the eye, sensitive to light. Its primary function is to send messages to the brain through the optic nerve.

Causes of Retinal Detachment

• Contraction of the gel (vitreous) that fills the space between the lens and the retina
• Trauma from injury
• Advanced diabetes
• Inflammatory eye disorder

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

• Blurry vision is common.
• Floaters or small spots may appear and block an individual’s ability to see clearly. Floaters are characterized by dark, shadowy spots or lines and are most noticeable when looking at bright images or white walls.
• Flashes can appear as if a bright light is turning off and on in the field of vision. What doctors often call a “dark curtain,” this visual impairment may cause an individual to lose consciousness.
• Sudden flashes of light
• A shadow over a portion of the field of vision
• The appearance of small bits of debris in the field of vision that look like spots, hairs or strings (also called floaters)

If the retina is torn but not completely detached, it may be possible to use laser treatment or cryotherapy to fuse the retina in place. For retinas that have completely detached, surgery may be necessary to repair the structure of the eye. Laser treatment or cryotherapy may still be required after surgery to help hold the retina in place.

Surgery for retinal detachment includes three primary forms:

• Pneumatic retinopexy, the injection of a gas bubble into the vitreous in order to push the retinal tear back against the wall of the eye
• Scleral buckle, a band placed around the eye to hold the retina in place
• Vitrectomy, the removal of the gel that pulls on the retina

At Houston Methodist a multidisciplinary team of doctors works together to ensure the highest quality of patient care.

If you suspect retinal detachment, seek medical attention immediately. A detached retina usually requires surgery to keep the retina pressed against the choroid and hold tissues in place until they heal.