What is the management step for retinal detachment?

What is the management step for retinal detachment?

• A. Wait and watch
• B. Emergency ophthalmology referral
• C. Home rest and analgesia
• D. Oral antibiotics only

Answer: (B)

Retinal detachment is a sight-threatening emergency that can progress rapidly, potentially causing permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The best management step is an emergency referral to ophthalmology for urgent evaluation and possible surgical reattachment. Depending on the detachment’s type and extent, treatment may involve laser therapy or cryopexy for small or peripheral detachments, with definitive repair typically by scleral buckle or pars plana vitrectomy. Waiting, resting at home, or using analgesics or antibiotics does not address the underlying detachments and allows progression, so they are not appropriate.

Retinal detachment is a sight-threatening emergency that can progress rapidly, potentially causing permanent vision loss if not treated promptly. The best management step is an emergency referral to ophthalmology for urgent evaluation and possible surgical reattachment. Depending on the detachment’s type and extent, treatment may involve laser therapy or cryopexy for small or peripheral detachments, with definitive repair typically by scleral buckle or pars plana vitrectomy. Waiting, resting at home, or using analgesics or antibiotics does not address the underlying detachments and allows progression, so they are not appropriate.