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Laser in situ keratomileusis-induced optic neuropathy
B D Cameron1, N A Saffra, M B Strominger
1Division of Ophthalmology, Maimonides Medical Center, Brooklyn, NY 11219, USA.
Ophthalmology
|April 12, 2001
Summary
Bilateral optic neuropathy can occur after laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery. This vision-threatening complication may result from barotrauma or ischemia, necessitating pre- and post-operative optic nerve evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Ophthalmic Surgery
- Neurology
Background:
- Laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a common refractive surgery.
- Optic neuropathy is a serious condition affecting vision.
Observation:
- A case report details bilateral optic neuropathy developing post-LASIK surgery in a patient with previously healthy optic nerves.
- Symptoms included decreased visual field, relative afferent pupillary defect, and nerve fiber layer thinning.
Findings:
- The patient exhibited optic nerve cupping, neuroretinal rim defects, and visual field deficits consistent with optic neuropathy.
- No other risk factors or causes for the neuropathy were identified.
Implications:
- Optic neuropathy is a potential vision-threatening complication of LASIK.
- Barotrauma or ischemia from intraocular pressure spikes during surgery may be causative factors.
- Thorough pre- and post-operative optic nerve examinations are crucial for LASIK candidates.