Photorefractive Keratectomy and Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis on 6-Month Space Missions

Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024 May 1;95(5):278-281. doi: 10.3357/AMHP.6368.2024.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: This article documents the stability of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in two astronauts during 6-mo missions to the International Space Station.CASE REPORTS: Ocular examinations including visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, slit lamp examination, corneal topography, central corneal thickness, optical biometry (axial length/keratometry), applanation tonometry, and dilated fundus examination were performed on each astronaut before and after their missions, and in-flight visual acuity testing was done on flight day 30, 90, and R-30 (30 d before return). They were also questioned regarding visual changes during flight.DISCUSSION: We documented stable vision in both PRK and LASIK astronauts during liftoff, entry into microgravity, 6 mo on the International Space Station, descent, and landing. Our results suggest that both PRK and LASIK are stable and well tolerated during long-duration spaceflight.Gibson CR, Mader TH, Lipsky W, Schallhorn SC, Tarver WJ, Suresh R, Hauge TN, Brunstetter TJ. Photorefractive keratectomy and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis on 6-month space missions. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(5):278-281.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aerospace Medicine
  • Astronauts*
  • Humans
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ* / methods
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Myopia / physiopathology
  • Myopia / surgery
  • Photorefractive Keratectomy* / methods
  • Space Flight*
  • Visual Acuity* / physiology