Question of the Month: I am an adult with Spina Bifida that would like to have eye surgery to correct my near-sightedness. Is it safe for me? I have a VP shunt?

Corrective eye surgery is usually an outpatient procedure performed without general anesthesia. Since there is no general anesthesia and the surgery is limited to the cornea of the eye, this surgery is safe for someone with a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt.

It is important for everyone to visit an eye doctor on a regular basis. The Health Guide for Adults Living with Spina Bifida includes a section on making doctor’s appointments that is helpful for adults concerned about their general health. This publication is available at SBA’s Marketplace.

For past questions and answers visit the Ask the Doctor archive.