What is a posterior vitreous detachment?

Posterior vitreous detachment (PVD) is a condition of the eye whereby the vitreous gel at the back of the eye separates from the retina.

Blood vessel complication of PVD

Very occasionally the vitreous gel can shrink and pull strongly on a blood vessel on the retina and cause further problems. If the gel pulls on a blood vessel, a small bleed into the vitreous cavity can occur known as a vitreous haemorrhage. This may look like a spider web in the vision. Or, if it disperses, the blood can look like hundreds of small individual floaters. Usually, the blood disappears by itself but you should always get it checked by an ophthalmologist or optometrist to rule out a retinal tear or detachment (see below).

Retinal tear complications of PVD

If the vitreous gel shrinks and pulls strongly on the retina, a small tear can develop. Retinal tears can lead to a retinal detachment when the retina itself pulls away from the back of the eye. This cannot be ignored and needs urgent treatment in most cases.

Treatments to prevent retinal detachment include sealing the retinal tear with a laser (retinopexy) or freezing therapy (cryotherapy).

Treatment of posterior vitreous detachment

Posterior vitreous detachment generally does not require any specific treatment. However, it is appropriate to ensure that there is no retinal tear or detachment. If you are unlucky enough to have a retinal tear or detachment as a result of posterior vitreous detachment, even a prompt diagnosis and treatment cannot prevent loss of vision in that eye.

In case you have any new onset floaters or flashes of light, I recommend seeing your optometrist or ophthalmologist as soon as possible (within 24 to 48 hours). In most cases the ageing phenomenon of posterior vitreous detachment is the cause.


If you have any further questions please feel free to call me on 020 7935 7990 and I would be happy to discuss your needs in person.