Complex Retinal Detachment: Proliferative Vitreoretinopathy and Giant Retinal Tears
A complex retinal detachment is a serious form of retinal detachment that may involve proliferative vitreoretinopathy (PVR), significant scar tissue, or a giant retinal tear. PVR occurs when scar tissue and membranes form on or around the retina and contract, pulling on the retina and making the detachment more difficult to repair.
A giant retinal tear is a large retinal tear involving a significant portion of the retina. When PVR or a giant retinal tear is present, specialized retinal surgery is often necessary to repair the detachment and preserve vision.
Symptoms of a complex retinal detachment can include:
- New or increased floaters
- Flashes of light
- A shadow or curtain moving across the field of vision
- Loss of peripheral (side) vision
- Decreased or distorted central vision
Some patients may have few or no noticeable symptoms, particularly when the detachment develops slowly or does not involve the macula.
A sudden increase in floaters, flashes of light, or a curtain or shadow in your vision requires immediate evaluation by an eye care professional.
Complex retinal detachments require retinal surgery. Depending on the characteristics of the detachment, surgery may involve:
- Vitrectomy to remove the vitreous gel and allow the surgeon to repair the retina
- Removal of scar tissue or membranes from the retina
- Scleral buckle to support the retina from the outside of the eye
- Laser treatment to seal retinal tears
- Other specialized surgical techniques for more advanced detachments
A gas bubble or silicone oil may be placed inside the eye at the end of surgery to help hold the retina in position while it heals.
