Protect Your Vision from Tractional Retinal Detachment
Understanding Tractional Retinal Detachment
Knowing how and why this condition develops can help you recognize the warning signs and seek timely care.
Tractional retinal detachment happens when scar tissue on the retina pulls it away from the back of the eye. This process often develops slowly, especially in advanced diabetic eye disease or when abnormal blood vessels grow.
In the United States, about 2.03 out of every 100,000 people develop tractional retinal detachment each year. In the Greater Philadelphia area, that equals roughly 129 people annually.
Scar tissue may develop from chronic inflammation, abnormal blood vessel growth, or previous eye surgery, all of which can place traction on the retina.
Recognizing Early Symptoms
Early detection is vital because symptoms can be subtle until the detachment has advanced.
You might notice sudden flashes, like camera flashes or lightning streaks, often in your side vision.
A dark curtain may move across your field of view, signaling that the retina is pulling away.
Central or side vision may suddenly become blurry or warped, and straight lines can appear bent or wavy.
Dark spots, lines, or shapes that drift across your vision can appear when scar tissue tugs on the retina.
Your side vision may fade or narrow, sometimes without pain or discomfort.
In more advanced cases, overall vision can drop quickly, especially if the macula is involved.
Diagnostic Evaluation
A detailed eye exam allows our retina specialist to confirm the diagnosis and plan treatment.
A slit-lamp microscope provides a close view of the front and back of the eye, revealing subtle changes or scar tissue.
After pupil dilation, the retina is examined for signs of detachment or structural changes.
A photograph of the back of the eye documents any abnormalities and helps track progression over time.
A special dye shows blood flow through retinal vessels, pinpointing leakage or abnormal growth.
This non-invasive imaging creates cross-sectional views of retinal layers, revealing traction or detachment.
If the retina cannot be seen clearly, ultrasound visualizes the eye from the inside to assess the detachment’s extent.
Potential Complications
Untreated or advanced cases can lead to additional eye problems that further threaten vision.
Reduced blood flow impairs retinal function and can worsen vision loss.
Bleeding inside the eye’s vitreous gel may cloud vision and sometimes requires additional treatment.
Clouding of the eye’s natural lens can arise from the underlying disease or following surgery.
New, abnormal blood vessels on the iris and drainage angles can raise eye pressure and damage the optic nerve.
The retina may detach again if scar tissue recurs or other complications develop.
Main Causes
Several conditions increase the risk of tractional retinal detachment by promoting scar tissue formation.
Blocked veins raise pressure and damage blood vessels, encouraging scar tissue growth.
Inflammation in retinal vessels can trigger fibrous tissue development.
Inflammation inside the eye may indirectly lead to scar tissue on the retina.
Significant trauma can spark inflammatory responses that result in retinal traction.
Changes in retinal blood vessels from sickle cell disease may lead to harmful scar tissue.
This condition can develop after a retinal detachment or certain surgeries, causing further traction.
Treatment Options
The choice of treatment depends on the detachment’s severity, location, and underlying cause.
The vitreous gel and associated scar tissue are removed, and the space is filled with a temporary gas, air, or oil bubble that presses the retina back into place.
A small gas bubble is injected into the eye. As it rises, it presses against the retina, counteracting the traction. Proper head positioning afterward is essential.
A flexible band is placed around the white of the eye, gently pushing the wall inward to support the retina and relieve pulling forces.
Caring for Your Vision
Early detection and prompt treatment greatly improve the chances of preserving sight. Our practice draws on decades of trusted care, advanced technology, and a commitment to treating every patient like family.
Dr. Rho is the best retina specialist in the world he saved my eye sight very professional
Karen Hawkins
I had an appointment with the retina specialist on Saturday morning. I'm VERY happy with my care there. Office staff was very friendly and Dr was great. I recommend this office.
Joan Schmidt
I always feel very confident in Dr. Soll's Evaluaciones and Recommendations. Dr. Rho also gave also gave me a thorough retina exam
Rose Curley
I was given an emergency appointment with Dr Rho. He looked in my eyes and saw a hole in my retina. I am so thankful to Dr. Rho and his team for making me feel comfortable and at ease.
H.S
Dr. is caring and very knowledgeable about Retina care. He is never to busy to answer my questions. He and his staff possess wonderful people skills and care. They are all very professional.
Frances Harrison
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