What are retinal detachments and retinal tears?
The retina lies flat against the inside, back wall of the eye. A retinal detachment occurs when the retina is lifted or pulled from its normal position. This can happen as a result of normal retraction of the vitreous which can tear the retina and allow fluid to seep beneath it causing a separation; a tumor; complications from other diseases; a severe blow to the head or eye and occasionally it is hereditary. A retinal tear occurs when the vitreous shrinks, pulling a tear, or rip, in the retina. Most tears occur on the peripheral retina and have little effect on vision. However they may lead to an accumulation of fluid under the retina, which results in retinal detachment and significant vision loss.
