Retinal detachment occurs with a frequency of 1 per 15,000
population per year. The tear (or hole) responsible for the
detachment develops as a result of shifting within the vitreous
gel (detachment of the posterior vitreous hyaloid). Retinal
detachment requires a surgical procedure for repair
(reattachment). If a tear (or hole) is detected before the
detachment occurs, prophylactic laser coagulative treatment can
be done.
