Aetiology

• Age-related degeneration of the retina
• Myopia
• Eye injuries
• Eye surgery e.g. cataract

Pathophysiology

• Retinal hole - caused by chronic retinal atrophy (progressive thinning)
• Retinal break refers to a full thickness defect in the sensory retina; hen a retinal break is associated with vitreous traction (PVD), it is termed a retinal tear

Clinical features

• Asymptomatic
• May have photopsia or see floaters

Investigation

• Fundoscopy

Management

• Management of retinal tears aims to create adhesions between the retina and the choroid to prevent detachment
• This can be done using laser therapy or cryotherapy

Complications

• Retinal detachment