Eyes-Excimer Laser Surgery

There is a difference of opinion among doctors as to whether LASIK is appropriate for children in certain situations. The family should use the following information to help their decision making process.

Laser surgery is not performed on most children in the general public. In fact, adults are cautioned to wait until they stop growing prior to having surgery. This is typically after the age of 18.

In cases where children will not wear glasses, and Laser is being contemplated, general anesthesia is required. Anesthesia carries its own risks in all patients, and in patients who have CdLS as well.

Many of the children with CdLS may refuse to wear glasses. Many of the developmentally delayed children that I see (most of whom do not have CdLS) need glasses. Some will wear them and some do not. Over the years, I have concluded that if the child perceives a benefit from wearing the glasses, they will indeed keep them on. If they don't notice a benefit, they may refuse to wear them. When they are developmentally ready to Òexpand their worldÓ they will then keep them on.

In making this decision, I would ask the parents if they see any change in the childÕs behavior when they have the glasses on. If they see an enormous difference in behavior, then the Lasik surgery might actually be of some benefit.

SS/TK 7-13-10