prophylactic: is any preventative measure. For example birth control pills or condoms are prophylactics.
In your husband's case of lattice degeneration, measures to prevent a retinal detachment are done only if there is a HIGH risk of detachment. Thus there would have to be a lot of traction and/or fluid build up and/or he is experiencing active symptoms of a retinal detachment, like flashes and increase in floaters. There are many people with lattice who do not undergo any treatment and are perfectly fine. Also, many retinal holes do not require treatment. Many times preventative measures can end up doing more harm than good.
The treatment is either laser photocoagulation (direct or indirect) or cryotherapy or laser cerclage. Although, the last is not performed too often. There is much on the net about these procedures.
Your husband should already know the risks of the above since he's already undergone a laser procedure in the past.
How is prophylactic treatment done?
I know it... is usually done if there is traction or fluid around the holes to preserve vision from retinal detachment. But I want to know the process. Its risk factors. I had been searching all over the net but dint get any hit.
I am really concerned to the extent that....its like living with a time bomb ticking for 8 years. Its so stressful and I want to update as much as I could. I don't want to take chances. Do any wrong treatment which will mess my husbands vision. Please please please help.
Dear sangs_pec,
Prophylactic treatment is usually done if there is traction or fluid around the holes. If you are concerned, call the eyeMD and ask for more information from your doctor.
Dr. Feldman
Sandy T. Feldman, M.D., M.S.
ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center
San Diego, California