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Corneal iron ring after hyperopic photorefractive keratectomy.
K Bilgihan1, F Akata, G Gürelik
1Gazi University, Medical School, Department of Ophthalmology, Ankara, Turkey.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|May 20, 1999
Summary
Corneal iron deposition can occur after hyperopic photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). This finding, a ring-shaped iron deposit, may correlate with the achieved refractive correction in patients undergoing PRK for hyperopia.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Refractive Surgery
Background:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a common refractive surgery procedure.
- Hyperopic PRK aims to correct farsightedness.
- Corneal iron deposition is a potential, though uncommon, complication after refractive surgery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence and clinical course of corneal iron deposition following hyperopic PRK.
- To characterize the appearance and persistence of iron deposits in the cornea after this procedure.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 62 eyes that underwent hyperopic PRK between January 1995 and December 1997.
- Clinical data and slitlamp examination findings were analyzed to identify and track corneal iron deposition.
Main Results:
- Nine eyes (approximately 14.5%) developed a corneal iron ring.
- The iron rings appeared 5 to 8 months post-PRK (mean 6.25 months).
- These deposits persisted throughout the mean follow-up period of 19 months.
Conclusions:
- Ring-shaped corneal iron deposition after hyperopic PRK is a distinct entity that should be differentiated from a Fleischer ring.
- The presence of peripheral corneal iron deposition in hyperopic PRK patients appears to correlate with the degree of refractive correction achieved.