All you need to know about retina

What is retina?

Retina is the innermost layer of the eyeball which is primarily responsible for your vision. It’s a sophisticated arrangement of 10 layers to perceive light in a physiological process called visual cycle and send it to the brain through the optic nerve, which enables you to see.. A healthy retina is a minimum prerequisite to have useful sight.

How does the retina work?

The retina contains millions of photoreceptors detect light, turn it into electrical signals and communicate with the brain to produce vision. These tiny photoreceptor cells are called cones and rods. Together cones and rods provide you with the ability to tell the difference between light and dark, as well as colors.

• Cones Cones are light sensitive cells found in the macula, or the central part of the retina. These cells enable you to see fine details and color. The macula is responsible for clear vision which allows you to day to day activities.

• Rods Rods are located at the outer edges of the retina. These cells are used in peripheral vision and allow you to see in poor lighting.

How to detect a retinal problem?

There are variety retinal problems and diseases that can be diagnosed and treat by a retina specialist. Most retinal issues can be detected during a routine eye exam before the onset of symptoms. It is recommended to have an annual eye exams to detect retinal conditions early so treatment can begin as soon as possible.

If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, discuss them with your eye doctor immediately:

• Sudden onset of floaters (small to large dark spots blocking your vision)

• Flashes of light in one or both eyes

• Blurred vision

• Gradual reduction in peripheral (side) vision

• Curtain-like shadow over your visual field

What treatment options are available for a retinal detachment?

The treatment goal is slowing the disease progression and preserve, improve, or restore your vision. Some conditions, such as retinal detachment are considered urgent and require treatment as soon as possible. If left untreated, you may experience permanent vision loss or blindness. Expert retina surgeons will guide you to determine the best treatment available for your condition.

The following procedures are available to treat retinal tears and detachments:

Laser

A laser treatment can be used to seal horse shoe retinal tears or holes to prevent further damage and retinal detachment.

Pars Plana Vitrectomy

Pars plana vitrectomy is a day care procedure which is used to repair a detached retina. During vitrectomy, a retina surgeon removes the gel-like vitreous and replaces it with a saline solution.

Vitrectomy relieves tractional pulling forces that may be caused by attachments of the vitreous fragments on the retinal surface. Tamponading agents like gas or air helps neurosensory retina attach back to the retinal pigment epithelium.

The mixture is eventually absorbed and naturally replaced by fluid in the eye. Laser is used to seal the breaks and help in reattachment of retina

Scleral buckle

Often used in conjunction with vitrectomy, a scleral buckle is an elastic silicone band placed around the eye. The scleral buckle provides external tamponade to the retina and relieves any traction on the retinal surface. These are typically left permanently in the eye and tolerated well by patients.

Silicone oil

In long standing retinal detachments, we can use silicone oil to replace the vitreous to provide a long-term tamponade for retinal attachment. After the retina is attached , the silicone oil is removed

Normal retina