What Are the Best Treatments for Retinal Tears?
How important is your retina? As the key to clear vision, the retina is the light-sensitive tissue that lines the back of the eye. Through the cornea, pupil and lens, we focus light rays onto the retina. The retina converts those light rays into impulses that travel through the optic nerve to our brain, where they are translated into our vision.
When a retinal tear occurs, you may see new floaters (small dots, specks or strings or clouds moving in your field of vision) or flashes of light. If a retinal tear is left untreated, it can progress to a retinal detachment, which can appear like a dark curtain moving toward your central vision. A retinal detachment is a very serious medical condition that almost always causes blindness unless it is treated. That’s why we provide advanced diagnosis and 24/7 treatment of retinal tears in Austin.
Treatment for retinal tears
At Austin Retina Associates, we begin by thoroughly assessing your retinal condition. Then we will recommend a procedure (or may discuss several treatment options) with you.
“Most retinal tears are treated during in-office procedures,” says Dr. Peter Nixon, “However, if a retinal tear progresses to a retinal detachment, surgery is almost always required at a local surgery center or hospital under either local or general anesthesia. Most patients go home the same day.”
Treatment options for retinal tears include:
- Laser surgery (photocoagulation) – During this procedure, a laser is used to make small burns around the retinal tear. The scarring that results seals the retina to the underlying tissue, helping to prevent a retinal detachment.
- Freezing treatment (cryopexy) – A special freezing probe is applied to the sclera (white part of the eye); freezing the retina around the retinal tear. The result is a scar that helps secure the retina to the eye wall.
Innovative treatments for retinal tears, from some of the best in Texas
At Austin Retina Associates, protecting your vision has been our mission for more than 30 years. Since 1978, we have led the way in specialized retinal care, using leading-edge technologies to preserve and protect the vision of millions of Central Texans. From retinal tears to macular degeneration to treating and managing diabetic eye disease, you and your family can count on our unfailing dedication to your healthy vision. If you think you may have a retinal tear, please call us immediately at 800-252-8259 and relay your symptoms to us.
To schedule an appointment with one of our board-certified retina specialists, call 800-252-8259 or use our online form for non-urgent symptoms to request your appointment today.
