Posterior Vitreous Detachment
Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD) is a common age-related change that occurs when the vitreous gel, which fills the inside of the eye, gradually becomes more liquid and separates from the retina.
PVD is a natural part of aging and usually does not threaten vision. However, as the vitreous separates from the retina, it can sometimes pull on the retina and cause a retinal tear or other complication. For this reason, new flashes or floaters should be evaluated promptly.
The most common symptoms of PVD are:
- Floaters, which may appear as spots, cobwebs, lines, or a ring in your vision
- Flashes of light, often noticed toward the side of your vision or in darker surroundings
These symptoms are often most noticeable when PVD first occurs and typically become less bothersome over several weeks or months.
Most PVDs do not require treatment. The flashes and floaters generally become less noticeable as the eye adjusts to the changes.
Because a retinal tear or detachment can occasionally occur during a PVD, follow-up examinations may be recommended after the initial onset of symptoms.
If a complication develops, treatment may include laser treatment for a retinal tear or surgery for a retinal detachment. In rare cases where persistent floaters significantly interfere with vision, vitrectomy surgery may be considered.
