Understanding a Detached or Torn Retina: What Does it Mean for a Boxer?

A break in the retina can be a serious injury for any athlete, including boxers like Errol Spence Jr. A detachment or a tear is essentially what it sounds like - a break in the thin layer of tissue called the retina that lines the back wall of the eye. But what's the difference between these two injuries?

A retinal 'break' is a broader term that encompasses both tears and breaks, while a tear specifically refers to a smaller, more contained injury. To understand the severity of this injury, it's essential to know what the retina does and how it functions properly.

The retina acts as the film in a camera, collecting light, turning it into signals, and sending them to the brain for interpretation. Without it, vision would be severely impaired or even lost. For boxers like Spence, who rely heavily on their eyesight, this injury can have significant implications.

In the case of Errol Spence Jr., his injury was initially described as a tear. However, new information from the Nevada State Athletic Commission later revealed that it was actually a detachment/break. The difference between these two injuries is crucial in determining the best course of treatment and recovery time.

For a boxer like Spence, the risk of future retinal injury increases significantly, which can be exacerbated by other eye or vision problems. According to Dr. Brian VanderBeek, a retina surgeon at the Scheie Eye Institute, surgery may be necessary to repair the damage. While recovery is possible, it's not without risks.

In an interview with Bad Left Hook, Dr. VanderBeek advised that a fighter like Spence might need to consider retirement due to the increased risk of future retinal injury. However, with proper treatment and care, some boxers have been able to recover from similar injuries and return to competition within three to four months.

In conclusion, a detached or torn retina is a serious injury that requires immediate attention and proper treatment. For boxers like Errol Spence Jr., this injury can have significant implications for their careers and future in the sport. With the right care and medical attention, it's possible for boxers to recover from these injuries and continue fighting at a high level.

Detached or torn retina