retina detachment surgery.

What is a Retinal Detachment and do I need Retina Surgery?

The part of the eye that works like film in a camera is known as the retina; the light sensitive nerve tissue in the eye that changes images from the eye’s optical system into electrical impulses that are passed along the optic nerve to the brain.

There are two types of photoreceptors in the retina: rods and cones. Cones work best in bright light and are responsible for why see color. Cones are contained in the macula, the section of the retina responsible for central vision. They are most tightly packed within the fovea, the very center section of the macula. And while the retina is comprised of approximately 6 million cones, there are approximately 125 million rods. They are dispersed throughout the peripheral retina and work the best in dim lighting. Rods are responsible for peripheral and seeing at night. There are numerous conditions that can permanently impair vision including retinal tears and retinal detachments. The key in successfully treating retinal tears and detachments is through early detection so your physician can determine the correct treatment for you.

Retinal Detachment Surgery, Treatment & Prevention

The correct treatment depends on the type, severity and location of the detachment. There are a number of ways to treat retinal detachment including Pneumatic retinopexy. This procedure is done to reattach the retina. First the eye is numbed with a local anesthesia, and then the surgeon injects a small gas bubble into the vitreous cavity. The bubble rises and presses against the retina, flattening it against the back wall of the eye. This treatment is most effective for detachments located in the upper portion of the eye.

Due to the location or size, retinal detachments are sometimes best treated with a procedure called a scleral buckle. This technique attaches a tiny sponge or band made of silicone to the outside of the eye, pressing inward and holding the retina in position. After removing the vitreous gel from the eye with a procedure called a vitrectomy, the surgeon typically seals a few areas of the retina into position with laser or cryotherapy. The scleral buckle is not visible and remains permanently attached to the eye.

For more information about this or any other eye procedures, please click here for a list of all the fine surgeons who work out of Albany Regional Eye Surgery Center.

 

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