Author: Erik Verzemnieks, M.D. Educational Pearls Posterior vitreous detachment is the tearing of the lining in the back of of the eye. Patients often present with loss of vision and floaters. Diagnosis can be made with US. This is a benign diagnosis, but 10-15% can progress to retinal detachment , so follow up  with ophthalmology is recommended. References: http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/513226