Retinal detachment treatment and diagnostics abroad

Retinal detachment is an emergency in which the retina separates from the layers underneath and stops getting nourishment. Without prompt treatment it leads to partial or complete vision loss. The most common type follows a retinal tear, often associated with age-related vitreous changes; severe short-sightedness and eye injury increase risk. Other types may occur with diabetic retinopathy or other eye disease.

The catalogue below lists clinics with vitreoretinal surgery.

Symptoms — when to see a doctor urgently

• a sudden shower of floaters;
• flashes of light;
• a shadow or “curtain” over part of the field of vision;
• a sudden drop in vision.

Diagnosis

Dilated eye fundus examination, eye ultrasound and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

Retinal detachment treatment abroad

• Laser photocoagulation or cryopexy — sealing a tear before the retina detaches.
• Pneumatic retinopexy — a gas bubble is injected to press the retina back into place.
• Scleral buckle — a silicone band placed on the outside of the eye.
• Vitrectomy — removal of the vitreous gel with a gas or silicone oil fill, for complex and long-standing detachments.

The earlier treatment starts, the better the result, especially before the macula detaches. All clinics are in the ophthalmology section.

New flashes, a sudden increase in floaters, a curtain or sudden loss of vision require immediate local ophthalmic or emergency assessment. Do not wait for a remote reply or travel arrangements. After urgent care, you may send a request with your report to discuss further care.