---
title: What is a branch retinal tear?
description: "A branch retinal tear is a localised break in the peripheral retina involving only a small segment of its circumference. It usually arises from focal traction during posterior vitreous detachment. ## Causes and Risk Factors Short-sighted eyes, lattice degeneration, and…"
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/conditions-diseases/what-is-a-branch-retinal-tear/"
updated: "2025-12-11"
category: "Conditions & Diseases"
---

# What is a branch retinal tear?

A branch retinal tear is a localised break in the peripheral retina involving only a small segment of its circumference. It usually arises from focal traction during posterior vitreous detachment.

## Causes and Risk Factors

Short-sighted eyes, lattice degeneration, and ocular trauma increase the likelihood of retinal tears. During vitreous separation, traction at weak points can create a flap or horseshoe-shaped tear.

- Symptoms may include flashes and localized floaters
- Some tears are found incidentally
- Untreated tears can lead to retinal detachment

## Treatment

Most branch tears are treated with barrier laser or cryotherapy to seal the edges to the underlying tissue, reducing detachment risk. Urgent vitreoretinal assessment is advised when a tear is suspected.

## Further Information

General information on retinal problems and surgery is available on the [vitreoretinal surgery](https://bluefinvision.com/vitreoretinal-surgery/) page, and the Blue Fin Vision® article [what is vitrectomy surgery?](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/what-is-vitrectomy-surgery/) explains a key treatment used when detachment occurs.