Is laser effective for lattice degeneration?

Posted by Mel on May 26, 1999 at 22:07:46
Hello.  I am 25 years old. I have lattice degeneration.  I have minor detachments and holes in both eyes.  What I doctor calls asympomatic.  I have been monitored and followed by a retinal specialist every few months.  It is very possbile that I will have to get laser surgery to treat the detachments.  I have two questions:
1)  If I have detachments in both eyes, how come I can still see 20/20 with glasses and contacts.
2)  If I get laser surgery, what are the chances that it will not detach and make my eyes worse than it is now?  I afraid that I will lose more vision than what I have now.
Thank for your time.

Posted by HFHS MD - NI on May 26, 1999 at 22:18:26
Small periperal holes and detachments do not affect the best corrected vision until the detachment involves the back of the eye (the macula).
The decision to treat lattice degeneration or holes in lattice is somewhat debateable, but most ophthalmologists feel that assymptomatic lattice degeneration does not need to be treated.  Instead, these patients should be followed closely until the patients develop some symptoms like floaters (new onset) or flashing lights.
This is not a hard and fast rule and some individual exceptions may be made.  This needs to be discussed between you and your retina specialist.
The most important thing is continued followup and close observation for the development of any symptoms.
This is provided for educational purposes only.  Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options.
Sincerely,
HFHS MD - NI