What is retinal detachment? A retinal detachment is a medical
emergency requiring immediate treatment. In this separation of
the light sensitive membrane in the back of the eye (retina)
becomes separated from its supporting layers (the outermost
pigment layer). Who is at risk for retinal detachment? Those at
risk for developing retinal detachment include: Nearsighted
(myopic) adults People over 50 years of age Those who have had
an eye injury After cataract surgery People with a family
history of retinal detachment What are the causes of retinal
detachment? The following conditions may cause retinal
detachment: Scarring or shrinkage of the vitreous (the jelly
like substance in the eye) can pull the retina inward. Small
tears in the retina allow liquid to seep behind the retina and
push it forward. Injury to the eye can knock the retina loose.
Bleeding behind the retina, most often due to diabetic
retinopathy or injury, can push it forward. Retinal detachment
may be spontaneous, which occurs most often in the