Intraocular lens power calculations using corneal topography after photorefractive keratectomy

Abstract

Purpose: To report two patients (two eyes) with previous photorefractive keratectomy, who subsequently underwent cataract extraction years later.

Design: Case reports.

Methods: Corneal topography was used to determine corneal power used in intraocular lens power calculations.

Results: In two eyes of two patients, intraocular lens calculations after photorefractive keratectomy were inadequate, which resulted in a hyperopic postoperative refractive error requiring implantation of a piggyback intraocular lens.

Conclusion: Corneal topography to determine corneal power in patients with previous photorefractive keratectomy may result in unpredictable intraocular lens power calculations. The clinical history method is the standard to determine corneal power and should be considered in intraocular lens calculations before cataract surgery. We recommend supplying refractive patients with preoperative data for use in future formulas for intraocular lens selection.