Medical and Surgical Retina

The Retina and Its Importance for Vision

The retina is a layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye that is crucial for our ability to see. It converts light into electrical signals that the brain processes into images. It consists of rods, which are responsible for seeing in dim light, and cones, which are responsible for color vision and sharp details. The macula, the central area of the retina, is responsible for sharp central vision.

Retinal diseases can affect these functions, leading to symptoms such as blurred vision and loss of central vision. Early detection through regular eye examinations is crucial for maintaining vision.

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Vista Eye Clinic Pfaeffikon SZ

Bahnhofstrasse 15

CH- 8808 Pfaeffikon SZ

Tel. +41 55 552 16 66
Fax +41 55 552 16 65

E-Mail augenklinik.pfaeffikon@vista.ch

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Retinal diseases can significantly impair vision, as the retina is responsible for transmitting images to the brain. Disturbances in its metabolism can lead to irreparable damage and even blindness. Typical symptoms are flashes of light, irregular lines or simply limitations in the visual field or central vision/scotomas. Early diagnosis and treatment by a specialist are crucial for preserving vision.

The treatment of retinal diseases is divided into two main areas: Medical Retina and Surgical Retina. Medical retina is primarily dealing with the diagnosis and conservative treatment of retinal diseases with medication, injections or laser therapy. Surgical retina includes surgical procedures for the treatment of complex retinal diseases, including retinal reattachment, removal of epiretinal membranes or treatment of macular holes.

Definition: A retinal detachment occurs when the retina separates from the underlying tissue (the retinal pigment epithelium), resulting in severe visual impairment.

Symptoms: Sudden appearance of flashes of light, seeing black spots or «floaters» and increasing restriction of the visual field.

Treatment: Urgent surgical reattachment of the retina by vitrectomy or scleral buckle surgery.

Definition: Formation of a fine layer of connective tissue on the surface of the retina leading to visual distortions.

Symptoms: Perception of warped lines, blurry or distorted vision.

Treatment: Surgical removal of the membrane through vitrectomy.

Definition: A hole in the macula causing a loss of central visual acuity.

Symptoms: Dark, central spot in the field of vision, distorted or blurry vision.

Treatment: Surgical treatment through vitrectomy and insertion of a gas bubble to aid healing.

Definition: A disease that damages the macula and leads to a loss of central visual acuity, divided into a non-exudative and an exudative form.

Symptoms: Blurring or distortion in the center of the visual field, difficulty reading or recognizing faces.

Treatment: Non-exudative form: currently no promising approved form of treatment. Exudative form: Anti-VEGF therapy (injections in the eye) to reduce macular edema and slow progression.