What Is a Retinal Tear?

A retinal tear is a break in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye.

Retinal tears commonly develop when the vitreous gel separates from the retina and pulls strongly enough to create an opening.

A retinal tear may allow fluid to collect beneath the retina, potentially leading to retinal detachment.

Causes and Risk Factors

Retinal tears may be associated with:

Posterior vitreous detachment
Aging-related changes in the vitreous
High myopia
Eye trauma
Previous retinal tears or detachment
Certain peripheral retinal conditions

Symptoms of a Retinal Tear

Possible symptoms include:

Sudden onset of floaters
Flashes of light
New spots or cobweb-like shapes in vision
Blurred vision
A shadow in peripheral vision

Not all retinal tears cause noticeable symptoms.

Sudden flashes or new floaters should be evaluated promptly to rule out a retinal tear or detachment.

Diagnosis

A comprehensive dilated retinal examination is used to evaluate the retina, including its peripheral areas.

The retina specialist will look for breaks, bleeding, traction, and signs of retinal detachment.

Retinal Tear Treatment

Some retinal tears require treatment to reduce the risk of retinal detachment.

Common treatment methods include:

Laser Retinopexy

Laser energy is applied around the retinal tear to create an adhesion that helps prevent fluid from passing beneath the retina.

Cryopexy

A freezing treatment may be used to create a similar protective adhesion around the retinal break.

The need for treatment depends on the tear’s characteristics, symptoms, and associated risk factors.

Retinal Tear Evaluation in Norfolk, VA

Virginia Retina Consultants provides evaluation of retinal tears and related retinal conditions. Early identification and appropriate treatment can help reduce the risk of complications.

Book an Appointment