Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD): causes, symptoms and treatment

What is Posterior Vitreous Detachment (PVD)?

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) occurs when the vitreous gel, the clear, gel-like substance inside the eye, separates from the retina, the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. Although PVD is a natural part of ageing, it can also be triggered earlier by factors such as high myopia (short-sightedness), eye surgery, severe trauma, or inflammation.

What causes Posterior Vitreous Detachment?

PVD typically arises as the vitreous gel shrinks and becomes more liquid with age, leading it to detach from the retina. While it commonly occurs in about 70% of individuals by the age of 70, those who are short-sighted or have had previous eye surgery may experience it earlier. If PVD occurs in one eye, there is a higher likelihood it will happen in the other eye as well.

Symptoms of Posterior Vitreous Detachment

Key symptoms of PVD include:

• Increased eye floaters: Spots or specks that appear to drift across your vision.
• Flashes of light: Streaks or flashes, especially in the peripheral (side) vision.

If you experience these symptoms, it is essential to consult an eye specialist promptly. PVD can sometimes lead to more severe conditions, such as retinal tears, retinal detachment, or, less commonly, a macular hole, due to the vitreous pulling on the retina.

Treatment for Posterior Vitreous Detachment

For most people, PVD does not require treatment and the symptoms diminish over time. However, if PVD leads to troublesome floaters or results in complications such as retinal detachment, treatment may be necessary. The main treatment is:

• Vitrectomy: This surgical procedure involves removing the vitreous gel from the eye. If retinal detachment is present, a gas or oil bubble may be placed in the eye to aid in retinal healing.

For further information about what happens during and after vitrectomy, please visit our vitrectomy page.

In cases where PVD doesn’t lead to complications, but floaters remain bothersome, vitrectomy can also be performed to remove the vitreous gel and alleviate symptoms.