What is a PVD?

The inside of the back of the eye is filled with a gel known as the vitreous. It is usually loosely attached to the retina at the back of the eye and very firmly attached around the inside towards the front. A posterior vitreous detachment occurs when the outer wall of the vitreous gel bag separates at the back from the inner wall of the retina. This process is like a bladder inside a football deflating.

What are the symptoms?

Individuals who develop a posterior vitreous detachment are typically aware of a sudden onset or change in their floaters and will often experience flashing lights or arcs of light, particularly in the dark.

Does it matter?

A posterior vitreous detachment not only causes visual symptoms but can also lead to a retinal tear and, subsequently, in an important minority of cases, a retinal detachment. The development or evolution of vitreous detachment also underlies many of the conditions managed by vitreoretinal surgeons, such as epiretinal membranes and macular holes.

What should I do?

Individuals who develop a sudden change in floaters or flashes are recommended to have an urgent eye and retinal examination, ideally within the next 48 hours. If a curtain or shadow appears in part of their vision then more urgent attention is required as this suggests that a retinal detachment may have occurred. If the symptoms are not of recent onset then a routine appointment would be reasonable.

Why Choose Mr Laidlaw?

Mr Alistair Laidlaw is one of the UK's best known and most experienced Vitreo Retinal surgeons. In his 27 years as an NHS consultant at St Thomas' Hospital London and The Maidstone Hospital Kent he has performed and taught retinal surgery and published over 70 research papers. He has been elected President of both the British & Eire Association of Vitreo Retinal Surgeons (BEAVRS) and Euretina.

His expertise means he can provide accurate diagnosis at The London Clinic Eye Centre, 119 Harley Street, London W1G 6AU. If surgery is needed, this is performed at The London Clinic, 20 Devonshire Place, London.