Complex Pediatric Retinal Detachment Specialist

What is complex pediatric retinal detachment?

The retina is the tissue that lines the back of the eye responsible for converting light into images. A healthy retina is a key to clear vision.

In the middle of your eye is a clear fluid that’s attached to the retina. If the fluid pulls hard enough, the retina can tear, pulling the retina off the back wall of your eye. This is called a retinal detachment. Retinal detachment in children is rare.

If your child complains of vision loss, see your ophthalmologist at Retina Consultants Ltd. for an evaluation as soon as possible. Early detection of eye disorders is the best way to correct the condition before it becomes irreversible.

How does complex pediatric retinal detachment affect a child’s vision?

Your child’s complaint depends on varying factors that include:

• Age
• Where the retina is torn
• Whether the tear affects one eye or both
• Cause of the detachment

Young children typically complain about poor vision when the center part of the retina has detached. If the detachment isn’t in the central area, there’s usually no change in vision.

Older children might notice symptoms of retinal detachment in its early stages. They could see floaters or complain of seeing flashing lights in their vision.

How is complex pediatric retinal detachment diagnosed?

During an eye exam, your ophthalmologist uses a special lens to view the condition of the retina. An ultrasound can be done for a more detailed look at the retina. It will show if the retina has peeled away from the back of the eye. In some children, this would be done under a general anaesthetic.

How is complex pediatric retinal detachment treated?

Early intervention is crucial to the success of reattaching the retina. If you have a torn retina, you should seek immediate attention at Retina Consultants Ltd. as it requires treatment right away. If a torn retina goes untreated, your vision loss can go from minor to severe and can even cause permanent blindness in a short period of time.

Surgery is required to treat complex pediatric retinal detachment using different methods, including:

• Lasers
• Air bubbles
• Freezing probe

These methods are used to seal a tear or reattach the retina.

If your child is complaining about blurred or distorted vision or showing signs of vision loss, schedule a consultation at Retina Consultants Ltd. by calling the office nearest you or booking your appointment online today.