The delicate inner lining of the eye which is around 1 millimeter thick is known as the retina. A number of sight-threatening problems can occur in the retina. If there is any damage caused to the retina, it is possible that a patient may develop some amount of vision loss. Diabetic retinopathy, retinal tears, macular degeneration and retinal detachment are the common problems associated with retina. Any one of these conditions can result in total blindness.

Retinal detachment is a condition in which the Retina separates from the underlying layer and hence loses its functional capacity. A retinal detachment, leads to a sudden and severe loss of vision, and if not treated properly can cause blindness and shrinking and disfiguring of the eye.

Most commonly, retinal detachment occurs due to a hole/tear formation in the retina. Through this hole, liquefied vitreous, which is jelly like substance filling the eyeball, passes behind the retina and detaches it.

Tractional retinal detachment usually occurs in diabetics or other vascular diseases of the retina. Extensive membranes are formed on the retina, which on contracting, pull the retina up.