Retinal Detachment

Urgent diagnosis and surgical care for retinal detachment in Zurich

retinal detachment is a serious eye condition that can lead to permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. It occurs when the retina – the light-sensitive tissue lining the back of the eye – pulls away from its normal position. This separation prevents the retina from functioning properly and can rapidly impair vision.

At the ELZA Institute in Zurich, we provide rapid diagnosis and surgical treatment for retinal detachment. The retina team lead, Dr. Andrea Oleñik Memmel, is a specialist in vitreoretinal surgery, our team is equipped to manage both routine and complex cases using the latest techniques.

What Is Retinal Detachment?

The retina captures light and sends visual signals to the brain. It must lie flat against the back of the eye to work correctly. Retinal detachment occurs when fluid passes through a tear or hole in the retina and collects underneath, causing the retina to separate from the underlying tissue.

There are three main types:

  • Rhegmatogenous (most common): Caused by a tear or break in the retina, often related to aging or posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).
  • Tractional: Caused by scar tissue pulling on the retina, more common in diabetic eye disease.
  • Exudative: Caused by fluid leaking beneath the retina without a tear, usually linked to inflammation or tumors.
Retinal Tear

Vitrectomy Explained

Symptoms of Retinal Detachment

Retinal detachment is painless, but symptoms may appear suddenly. You should seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

  • sudden increase in floaters (small dark spots or threads in your vision)
  • Flashes of light in one eye
  • shadow or curtain moving across your field of vision
  • blurred or reduced area of central or peripheral vision

These symptoms may indicate a retinal tear or early detachment. Prompt treatment can preserve your sight.

Diagnosis at ELZA

At ELZA, we perform a dilated eye examination and use advanced imaging such as optical coherence tomography (OCT) and ocular ultrasound to assess the retina. If a tear or detachment is confirmed, we can proceed with treatment immediately.

Treatment of Retinal Detachment

Treatment depends on the type and extent of detachment, but surgical repair is almost always required. Common procedures include:

  • Vitrectomy: Removal of the vitreous gel, followed by retinal reattachment using laser or cryotherapy and placement of a gas or silicone oil bubble.
  • Scleral Buckle: A flexible band placed around the eye to gently push the wall of the eye against the retina.
  • Pneumatic Retinopexy: Injection of a gas bubble into the eye to press the retina back in place, combined with laser or freezing treatment.

Your surgeon will recommend the most appropriate approach based on your specific condition. Surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and is often done as an outpatient procedure.

Why Choose ELZA for Retinal Detachment Care?

  • Rapid Access: Urgent appointments and surgical planning for acute retinal detachment
  • Surgical Expertise: Dr. Andrea Oleñik Memmel is fellowship-trained in vitreoretinal surgery
  • Advanced Diagnostics: On-site OCT, angiography, and ultrasound
  • Comprehensive Aftercare: Postoperative monitoring and support to protect long-term vision

Don’t Delay – Act Quickly

A retinal detachment is a sight-threatening emergency. The sooner it is treated, the better the chances of preserving or restoring vision.

If you experience sudden visual symptoms, contact ELZA Institute immediately. Early treatment is essential.

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