Retinal Hole

Peripheral retinal holes are defects in the retina which may be caused by a number of conditions including retinal traction, ocular trauma and high myopia (nearsightedness). Though common symptoms include a sudden onset of flashes and floaters, peripheral retinal holes may present with no visual symptoms at all. However, if left untreated, peripheral retinal holes may lead to a retinal detachment by allowing fluid from the vitreous cavity to collect underneath the retina. Peripheral retinal holes may be treated with office-based procedures such as laser therapy or a procedure using a frozen probe (cryoretinopexy). These procedures can treat retinal holes by creating adhesions which attach the retina to the underlying layers, thus preventing a retinal detachment.