peripheral retinal exam question

Could you tell me how important it is in your opinion, to have a regular peripheral retinal exam prior to and following cataract surgery for some one with PVD, a history of retinal detachment in the family, extreme nearsightedness and a glaucoma suspect . Can they be performed in several ways...and is the exam with the "head set" a gold standard and/or inserted contact lens ? Should they necessarily or recommended be performed by a retinal specialist or cataract surgeon ?
Many thanks...

[Sandy Feldman, MD, MS]

Dear zelmo,

It is a good idea to have your retina examined.  There are many ways to examine the peripheral retina and indirect ophthalmoscopy [headset] is often used.  The cataract can sometimes interfere with the visualization of the retina.  

Dr. Feldman

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

[BostonSue]

I am thinking that with your family and personal medical history it is very important to let a specialist look at the whole retina.
The only way I have ever had one is by dilating the pupils with a medication and then the retina specialist looks via an indirect opthalmascope (headset)  into the eye.
The nearsightedness is" extreme. "That is like a code word for stretched thin retina and at high risk to detach during or after the cataract extraction.
Retina specialist is the way to go. If you show signs of detachment or tears they can laser you usually right away and prevent it from getting much worse.
It is just a routine monitoring and worth every ounce of the prevention it affords.
Go for it.

[dukey]

Scleral indentation is the gold standard as far as I understand it. You will know when you have it as you will essentially have a cotton bud shoved into the edges of your eye. Uncomfortable but reassuring. Have a retina specialist do it.

[zelmo]

Thank you for your complete and informative responses.