Laser in situ keratomileusis after intracorneal rings. Report of 5 cases

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2000 Dec;26(12):1733-41. doi: 10.1016/s0886-3350(00)00704-5.

Abstract

Purpose: To examine the results of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) after removal of intracorneal ring (ICR) segments.

Setting: Active refractive surgery practice.

Methods: The effect of ICR (0.45 mm) placement, the rapidity of refractive recovery after explantation, and the results of subsequent LASIK were examined in 5 eyes.

Results: Four eyes developed induced astigmatism after ICR implantation. In 2 of these eyes, retained astigmatism was evident by manifest refraction or corneal topography even after ICR explantation. In 1 eye, the ICR procedure was aborted because of an intraoperative complication. All 5 eyes had subsequent uneventful LASIK.

Conclusions: Intracorneal rings can induce astigmatism that may be retained even after explantation. Careful wound manipulation may reduce the incidence of this complication. Laser in situ keratomileusis after ICR removal appears to be safe and effective.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Astigmatism / etiology
  • Astigmatism / surgery*
  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Cornea / anatomy & histology
  • Cornea / surgery*
  • Corneal Topography
  • Device Removal*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ* / methods
  • Male
  • Myopia / surgery*
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate
  • Prostheses and Implants / adverse effects*
  • Prosthesis Failure
  • Reoperation
  • Visual Acuity

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Polymethyl Methacrylate