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TREATMENT

Posterior vitreous detachment

Separation of vitreous gel from retina.

What happens first?

Symptoms

The main symptoms are an increased number of floaters and flashes of light. These symptoms may be a sign of a more serious condition like a retinal tear, though with PVD they are likely to be less pronounced.

The main symptoms are:

  • Floaters (small dark or transparent spots or strands) in the field of vision
  • Flashes of light, like lightning streaks or sparkles
  • Sudden onset of blurry vision
  • Loss of peripheral vision
  • Sensation of a curtain or veil being drawn across the eye
  • Distorted or wavy vision
  • Decreased visual acuity in some cases

Causes

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) occurs when the vitreous gel inside the eye separates from the retina. The most common cause of PVD is aging, as the vitreous gel naturally becomes more liquefied and shrinks with age, leading to a higher risk of detachment. Other causes of PVD may include:
  • Trauma or injury to the eye
  • Myopia (nearsightedness)
  • Certain medical conditions such as diabetes
  • Family history of PVD
  • High levels of nearsightedness
  • Inflammatory eye conditions
It is important to note that PVD is a common and typically benign condition, but it can sometimes lead to complications such as retinal tears or detachments. If you experience symptoms such as flashes of light, floaters, or a sudden increase in floaters, it is essential to seek prompt medical attention to rule out any serious retinal issues.
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Treatment options

During surgery for posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), your ophthalmologist will perform a procedure known as vitrectomy. This surgical technique involves the removal of the vitreous gel that has detached from the retina and may be causing symptoms such as floaters or flashes of light.

Surgery

Surgery is carried out under local anaesthesia, where the eye is numbed with drops. Other forms of anaesthesia are available but this is dependent on the specific patient and their preferences.

The surgeon makes a tiny incision in the eye to insert microsurgical instruments. Using a suction device, the surgeon will remove the vitreous gel that has detached from the retina. Your surgeon also examine the retina to check for any tears or detachments that may have occurred as a result of the PVD. If any retinal issues are detected, they may be treated during the same procedure.

After the vitreous gel is removed, it is replaced with a saline solution or a gas bubble. This helps maintain the eye’s shape and provides support to the retina during the healing process.

Once complete, the surgeon will close the incision with sutures or let it heal on its own.

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