Laser in situ keratomileusis after penetrating keratoplasty

Abstract

Purpose: To determine the safety, efficacy, predictability, and stability of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) to correct myopia and myopic astigmatism in eyes with prior penetrating keratoplasty.

Methods: Eight eyes of 8 patients with penetrating keratoplasty had significant postoperative refractive error. Each eye received LASIK 1 year or more after penetrating keratoplasty. All were followed for 6 months or more. All patients were treated with the Chiron Technolas 217 excimer laser and the Automated Corneal Shaper microkeratome.

Results: Mean spherical equivalent refraction decreased from -4.50 D (range, -3.00 to -7.25 D) to -0.75 D (range, -1.50 to +0.50 D) and the mean preoperative astigmatism decreased from 3.50 D (range, 1.50 to 5.00 D) to 1.25 D (range, 0.75 to 2.00 D). Uncorrected visual acuity improved by at least two Snellen lines in all eyes. Best spectacle-corrected visual acuity did not change in four eyes (50%) and improved in three eyes (37.5%).

Conclusion: LASIK effectively reduced low and moderate myopia and myopic astigmatism following penetrating keratoplasty.