The vitreous is the clear jelly like substance that fills the interior of the eye. Throughout life it takes on more of a fluid consistency. The retina is the light sensitive membrane that lines the entire back inner surface of the eye much like wallpaper and functions like film in a camera
The vitreous gel / fluid is encased in a loose sack like material. This sack is loosely attached to the retina. When this sack like material separates from the retina it is termed a posterior vitreous detachment. Typically when this occurs one notices intermittent flashing lights, new floaters, cobwebs, and perhaps a shower of black dots.
Typically posterior vitreous detachment is an age related change. It is much more common if a cataract has previously been removed. Less common conditions associated with PVD include: diabetes, ocular inflammation, and vitreous hemorrhage.
The major concern sometimes associated with PVD is that of associated retinal tears. Retinal tears accompany posterior vitreous detachment 10 to 15 % of the time. It is the presence of these retinal tears that may dramatically increase the chance of developing a retinal detachment.
Treatment is only required if there are associated retinal tears, and even then not all tears require treatment. Careful complete retinal exam is performed to screen for the presence of retinal tears and if present to assess if they are the type that could lead to retinal detachment. Treatment, if required usually is accomplished by laser and/or cryopexy, a form of local freezing. The goal of treatment is to reduce the risk of developing retinal detachment.
Usually with time symptoms will become less apparent though may not disappear entirely, Treatment of associated retinal tears does not alter the presence of flashing lights, floaters, or cobwebs
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