What Is Vitreomacular Traction Syndrome?

The vitreous humor is the gel-like substance located between the retina and the lens. It is encapsulated in a thin shell (vitreous cortex) and typically remains attached to the retina. With age, the vitreous degenerates leading to the possibility of having its cortex “pulling away” from the retina. A full detachment is known as a posterior vitreous detachment (PVD).

Yet, a PVD does not always involve a complete detachment. In such a scenario, the tractional forces may cause anatomical damage anywhere in the retina, which can lead to a variety of conditions, including vitreomacular traction (VMT) syndrome. VMT that is left untreated can cause a host of other disorders including but not limited to epiretinal membranes or macular holes. These disorders may negatively affect vision or cause other complications.

Symptoms of VMT may include decreased vision sharpness or distortion, flashes of light, or objects appearing to be smaller than their actual size (micropsia).

This information is presented by Retina Macula Specialists of Miami, the largest private retina practice in the city. We are a nationally acclaimed retina practice dedicated to the medical and surgical management of vitreoretinal diseases. Each of our extensively trained doctors is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology and ready to help treat eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy treatment, retinal detachment, age-related macular degeneration, epiretinal membrane treatment, and more. We have three convenient locations in Miami, Coral Gables, and North Miami Beach. For contact information or to request an appointment, please visit https://www.retinamaculamiami.com.