Laser correction and Lattice Degenration

  I have been diagnosed within the last two years with Lattice Degenration
  and have had very few problems so far.  I was just wondering if it was
  possible to have laser vision correction since I have lattice degeneration?
  The problem is that I am nearsighted in one eye and farsighted in the other,
  and I am riddled with lattice degeneration in both eyes.  If I had the laser
  vision correction done, would I have to wait until after my retina detached
  and then have it reattached and have the surgery done?
  Any information you can give me would be most helpful.  
  Thank you for your time.
  Rorie

[hfhs md ke]

_
rorie
first of all i do not think u understand the implication of a retinal detachment. a retinal detachment can lead to total blindness if not repaired quickly enough, and often leads to significantly decreased vision even if it is repaired quickly. so obviously it is a very serious problem. now the area u are asking about is a little muddied.  some surgeons believe that LASIK, and maybe PRK increases the risk of a retinal tear, and then detachment. these surgeons i am sure, including myself, would be very hesitant to perform LVC ( laser vision correction ) on anyone with a high risk of retinal tears due to widespread lattice degeneration. other surgeons would disagree and would possibly treat those types of patients  patients first with retinal laser to prophylactically seal off the areas of lattice to prevent them from leading to tears. then they might consider LVC. the problem is that there are no studies definitively supporting either view. my advice would be to be very careful, and if u truly want to consider LVC first have a thorough evaluation by a vitreo-retinal specialist and ask them about the possibility of retinal tears with or without LVC.
key words: LVC, lattice degeneration, retinal detachment
Disclaimer
This information is provided for general medical education purposes only. Please consult your physician for diagnostic and treatment options pertaining to your specific medical condition.