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Posterior Vitreous Detachment

What is posterior vitreous detachment or PVD?

As we age, the gel inside our eyes gradually liquifies and shrinks and may separate from the back of the eye. This process is called posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

This commonly affects people over the age of 60 years and is more common as we get older. They may occur at a younger age in people who are short-sighted (myopia) or have other eye conditions.

posterior vitreous detachment I Mr Ellabban

Symptoms

When posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) occurs, people may see:

  • Flashing light flickers in the periphery of vision. This usually occurs when the gel pulls on the light-sensitive tissue of the retina.
  • Floaters in vision (debris in the vitreous) appear as dark specks or spots or transparent strings of floating material.

What happens after posterior vitreous detachment?

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is harmless, and no treatment is needed. There is nothing you can do to prevent it, as it is a part of the natural ageing process.  The flashing lights gradually settle over the next few weeks. The floaters usually become less noticeable over time, or your brain may get adapted to them.

In a few cases of posterior vitreous detachment (PVD), the separated vitreous may pull on the retina, leading to a retinal tear or retinal bleed.

  • Retinal tears are often treated with a special type of laser to seal the retina. If the retinal tear is left untreated, it can cause retinal detachment.  This is an eye emergency that will require surgery.
  • Retinal bleed will need an emergency examination of the back of the eye for assessment of the retina.
retinal detachment I Mr Ellabban
posterior vitreous detachment I Mr Ellabban

Therefore, if you notice any new floaters, it is important to have your eyes checked by an eye doctor urgently.

Make an appointment

Warning symptoms of retinal tear or detachment

If you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • A sudden shower of new floaters
  • Increased flashing lights
  • Dark shadow or a ‘curtain’ in your vision

These symptoms can be early signs of retinal tear or detachment. You are advised to seek immediate advice and have your eyes checked by an eye doctor.

Contact

If you have any queries about your posterior vitreous detachment, you can contact Mr Ellabban’s secretary by filling out the form in the contact section.