Expert explains

Is retinal detachment a threat of blindness?

Readers ask, experts answer on the most pressing health issues. Mathilda G. (68): "Does retinal detachment always lead to blindness? Is there a treatment?"

Priv.-Doz. Dr. Anna Reisinger, Senior Physician at the Kepler University Hospital Linz (Upper Austria): In retinal detachment, the light-sensitive retinal layers become detached from the nourishing substrate. The most common reason for this is a hole in the retina. If not treated in time, this always leads to blindness. Treatment is carried out by means of an operation. Nowadays, the vitreous body is usually removed and the retina is reattached using laser or cold treatment.

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The prognosis of the disease depends on when it is discovered and treated. If surgery is performed before the macula, the area of sharpest vision, is affected, vision can be restored in most cases. So if you notice signs of retinal detachment, such as the perception of flashes, "flying gnats" or visual field loss, seek ophthalmologic help immediately!