What are retinal detachments and tears?
Retinal detachment occurs when the photo receptors (the rods and cones) separate from their underlying tissue layers. This causes a loss of vision in the area of the separation. Retinal detachments can sometimes be repaired or partially repaired with surgery. Retinal tears are splits in the retina that may cause vision disturbances, such as flashes of light or floaters. Retinal detachments and tears may be caused by physical injury or may be inherited. Although they may occur in people with Macular Degenerations, they are not necessarily a consequence of the disease.
