Retreatment after initial laser in situ keratomileusis

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery.
• Undercorrection and postoperative regression are potential complications following LASIK.
• Retreatment may be necessary to achieve optimal visual outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy and safety of LASIK retreatment.
• To analyze retreatment outcomes in patients with primary undercorrection.
• To assess retreatment results in patients experiencing postoperative regression.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 157 eyes of 108 patients.
• Retreatments performed using the VISX Star laser for undercorrection (27%) and regression (73%).
• Mean follow-up of 15 months post-initial surgery and 10 months post-retreatment.

Main Results:

• Pre-retreatment spherical equivalent (SE) improved from -1.28 D to -0.23 D.
• 97.5% of eyes achieved within +/-1.00 D of emmetropia; 81.5% within +/-0.50 D.
• Best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improved or remained stable in all eyes, with 1.3% experiencing a loss of ≥2 lines due to corneal irregularity.

Conclusions:

• LASIK retreatment is an effective and safe procedure for addressing undercorrection and regression.
• Good visual outcomes can be anticipated following LASIK retreatment.
• Regression can occur up to two years post-LASIK, and some patients may require multiple retreatments with promising results.