Can Laser Treatment Help My Mother's Retinal Damage from Eye Injury?

I would like to ask the doctor about issues related to the retina?

Hello, doctor: I am a resident of Hsinchu City, and I would like to ask you a question.
My mother had an incident when I was younger; since our family runs a metalworking factory, she accidentally got metal shavings in her left eye while working.
She thought rinsing it with water would suffice, so she didn't seek immediate medical attention.
It wasn't until her eye was extremely painful that she went to see a doctor, which resulted in a rupture of her retina.
Although she did not lose vision in her left eye, she now experiences a condition where, when using only her left eye, everything appears as if viewed through frosted glass, making it blurry and unclear.
I understand there is a type of laser treatment for myopia.
I would like to know if this laser method could also be used to treat my mother's condition, or if it is not applicable.
Could you please provide me with an answer?

Peggy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2000/11/20

Dr. Zhang Yuanze reply Ophthalmology

According to your description, having metal shavings enter the eye is a very serious ocular emergency.
After more than a decade of damage to the eye, it can no longer be treated with laser therapy.
If this just occurred, it is crucial to immediately transport the patient to a large hospital equipped to perform vitrectomy.
The presence of iron in the eye can lead to intraocular inflammation.
Iron can harbor bacteria, and as a heavy metal, it can damage the corneal epithelium and potentially cause retinal detachment, resulting in vision loss.
This is a condition that requires urgent intervention, and post-operative vision may still be compromised.

Reply Date: 2000/11/20

More Info

Your mother's situation is indeed concerning, and I understand your desire to find a solution for her retinal damage caused by the eye injury. Based on the information provided, it appears that your mother suffered a significant injury to her eye, which led to retinal damage. This type of injury can have lasting effects on vision, and the symptoms you describe, such as seeing through a "frosted glass" effect, indicate that there may be ongoing issues with her vision.

To address your question about laser treatment: While laser technology has advanced significantly and is used for various eye conditions, including refractive surgery for myopia (nearsightedness) and treatments for certain retinal conditions, it is important to note that not all types of retinal damage can be treated with laser therapy.
In cases of retinal tears or detachments, laser photocoagulation can be used to seal the retina and prevent further detachment. However, if the damage is extensive or if there are complications such as scar tissue formation, the effectiveness of laser treatment may be limited. Additionally, if the injury has led to changes in the retinal structure or function, laser treatment may not be the appropriate course of action.

It is crucial for your mother to have a thorough examination by a qualified ophthalmologist who specializes in retinal diseases. This specialist can assess the extent of the damage and determine whether any surgical or laser interventions are appropriate. They can also provide information about other potential treatments, such as injections or surgical procedures, that may help improve her vision.

Moreover, the timeline of the injury is also a factor. If the injury occurred many years ago, the chances of significant recovery may be lower, but it is still essential to explore all available options.
In summary, while laser treatment can be beneficial for certain retinal conditions, it may not be suitable for all types of retinal damage, especially in cases resulting from traumatic injuries. A comprehensive evaluation by a retinal specialist is necessary to determine the best course of action for your mother's specific condition. It is important to remain hopeful and proactive in seeking the best possible care for her vision.

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