Definition

Noun: A serious eye condition where the retina, the light-sensitive layer of tissue at the back of the eye, pulls away from its normal position. This separation from the underlying supportive layer (the choroid) disrupts the retina's blood supply and function, leading to vision impairment. It is a medical emergency typically treated with surgical procedures, including photocoagulation (using lasers to seal retinal tears).

Examples of Usage

• Early symptoms of detachment of the retina can include sudden flashes of light and floaters.
• The ophthalmologist confirmed the diagnosis was detachment of the retina and scheduled immediate surgery.
• Without prompt treatment, detachment of the retina can result in permanent vision loss.

Advanced Usage

• "to suffer a detachment of the retina": To experience this medical event.
  • The boxer suffered a detachment of the retina after the powerful blow.
• "surgical repair of a detachment of the retina": Refers to the operative procedure to correct the condition.
  • The success rate for surgical repair of a detachment of the retina is high if performed quickly.

Variants and Related Words

• Retinal detachment: The more common and equivalent medical term.
• Detached retina: A synonymous, frequently used layman's term.
• Retina (n): The light-sensitive layer itself.
• Choroid (n): The vascular layer beneath the retina.

Synonyms

• Retinal detachment
• Detached retina

Related Phrases

• Retinal tear: A rip in the retina, which is a common precursor to a full detachment.
• Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD): A related, often benign condition where the gel inside the eye separates from the retina; it can sometimes lead to a retinal detachment.

Noun

1. visual impairment resulting from the retina becoming separated from the choroid in the back of the eye; treated by photocoagulation