Question on Posterior Capsulotomy

[seliles]

I had cataract surgery on both eyes in October 2006.
Since that time, I have developed opacification of the lens capsule and feel I need to do something.  I keep putting it off because of fear. I had a retinal tear in my left eye 6 weeks after my initial cataract surgery.  In addition, I have  very nearsighted eyes (-8 and -9 dipoters).  And I have tons of floaters in both eyes and a Weiss ring . So I worry about complications from the YAG procedure.  

Can you tell me any information on the incidence of  retinal tears/detachments and severe floaters after the posterior capsulotomy?  

The retina specialist I go to said that since I had a retinal tear in one eye and the other eye has has a PVD, that the odds were small I would have another one (at least that's what I understood him to say).  Is this true?

I don't want to end up worse off than I currently now; my vision is very cloudy now.  And I can't conceive of having even more floaters.  My floaters never seem to go away even though all the doctors I go to say they will :)

Thanks for your comments!

seliles

[AntonReiser]

I would expect your vision to get better after capsulotomy.
I think you have not much choice. The yag laser is the only option you have.
If you have further questions please come to the "Eye Care Community".

[AntonReiser]

Here are some Links for You:
http://depot.knaw.nl/1486/1/15911_289_dejong.pdf
https://oa.doria.fi/dspace/bitstream/10024/2278/1/retinald.pdf
http://www.jpma.org.pk/full_article_text.php?article_id=1511

If your RD was from vitreous traction there should be only a small danger in the eye with PVD.

Have you already seen the capsulotomy videos on Youtube?

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear Seliles,

I would recommend that you seek the care of your retinal specialist who is familiar with your eyes both before and after the YAG procedure.  Usually, a YAG will help in improving visual acuity but might induce more floaters or risk of retinal tears and/or detachment.  Nonetheless, the procedure is usually of benefit and recommended if your reduced vision affecting activities of daily living.  Your eyeMD and retinal specialist should be able to give you more information specific to you.

Dr. Feldman

Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California

[seliles]

Thanks!  Those are all great articles!  Actually, the eye with the PVD did *not* have the retinal tear.  But I guess it was due from vitreous traction.