Retina
The retina, situated at the back of the eye, plays a crucial role in vision by converting light
into neural signals. It contains photoreceptors- rods for low light and cones for color perception.
Layers of cells, including bipolar and ganglion cells, process visual information. The macula,
especially the fovea, is vital for detailed vision. Conditions like macular degeneration emphasize
the importance of maintaining retina health through regular eye exams.
What is Retina?
What is Retinal Detachment?
Retinal detachment happens when your retina (a light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of your eye) is pulled away from its normal position. Retinal detachment is a medical emergency, and early treatment is important to protect your vision. If you have a retinal detachment, you may need surgery to reattach your retina to the back of your eye within a few days. After surgery, you may need to stay in the hospital for a short time — and it might take a few weeks before your vision starts getting better.
What is Retinal Detachment?
There are 3 types of surgery that doctors can do to fix a detached retina:
● Pneumatic retinopexy (“noo-mat-ick RET-ih-no-pek-see”)
● Scleral buckle
● Vitrectomy
The type of surgery you need will depend on several things, including how much of your retina is detached and where in your eye it is detached. Your doctor will talk to you about what type they recommend and about the risks and benefits of surgery. Some people may need more than one type of surgery at once.During the surgery, your doctor may also use laser or freeze treatments to repair tears or holes in your retina and help hold your retina in place after surgery.
What is Pneumatic Retinopexy?
In pneumatic retinopexy, your doctor will inject a small air bubble into your eye. The bubble will push your retina back into place so your doctor can use a laser or freeze treatment to repair any holes or tears. You can usually get this surgery in your doctor’s office. When you get this surgery, your doctor will:
● Put numbing medicine in your eye
● Insert a tiny needle into your eye and remove a small amount of fluid
● Inject a small amount of air into your eye
● Use laser or freeze treatment to repair any holes or tears in your retina
You’ll be able to see the air bubble in your peripheral (side) vision after the surgery. The bubble will disappear on its own over time.
After the surgery, you’ll need to:
● Hold your head in a certain position for several days to keep the air bubble in the right spot
● Avoid some activities — like flying in an airplane, intense exercise, and heavy lifting — while your eye heals
● Have a follow-up visit with your doctor to make sure your eye is healing
Tell your doctor if you have any questions or concerns after surgery, including if your vision seems worse or if you have a lot of pain or swelling.
What is Scleral Buckle Surgery?
During scleral buckle surgery, your doctor will put a tiny, flexible band around the white part of your eye. This part of the eye is called the sclera. The band pushes gently on the sides of your eye and moves them inward toward your retina, which helps your retina reattach. The band will stay on your eye permanently after the surgery. Your doctor may also use a laser or freeze treatment to repair any tears in your retina. Usually, you’ll get anesthesia so you’ll be asleep during this surgery. You won’t feel anything or remember the surgery. Most people can go home the same day, but you’ll need someone to drive you home. After the surgery, your eye may feel a little sore. You’ll need to:
● Wear a patch over your eye for about a day
● Avoid some activities — like heavy lifting or heavy exercise — while your eye heals
● Have a follow-up visit with your doctor to make sure your eye is healing
Tell your doctor if you have any questions or concerns after surgery, including if your vision seems worse or if you have a lot of pain or swelling.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)-
The retina is the thin layer of tissue lining the back of the eye. It contains light-sensitive cells that convert visual stimuli into electrical signals sent to the brain, allowing us to see.
The primary function of the retina is to capture light and convert it into neural signals that the brain interprets as vision. It plays a crucial role in our ability to perceive and process visual information.
Common retinal conditions include age-related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal detachment, macular holes, and retinal vascular diseases.
Symptoms may include blurred vision, floaters, flashes of light, distortion of shapes, and, in severe cases, a sudden loss of vision. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.
Retinal conditions are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination, including dilated pupil evaluation, fundus photography, and imaging tests such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and fluorescein angiography.
Certain lifestyle choices, such as maintaining a healthy diet, managing diabetes, and protecting your eyes from injury, can contribute to retinal health. Regular eye check-ups are crucial for early detection and intervention.
Management may involve controlling blood sugar levels, laser therapy, or injections to slow the progression of diabetic retinopathy. Regular eye exams are essential for monitoring and early intervention. If you have concerns about your retinal health or experience any symptoms related to your vision, consult with an eye care professional promptly for a thorough examination and appropriate guidance.