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LASIK in patients with rheumatic diseases: a pilot study
Jorge L Alió1, Alberto Artola, José I Belda
1Refractive Surgery and Cornea Department, Instituto Oftalmológico de Alicante Vissum Corporation, and Medical School, Miguel Hernández University, Alicante, Spain. jlalio@vissum.com
Ophthalmology
|September 20, 2005
Summary
Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) is safe for patients with controlled rheumatic diseases, showing good visual outcomes. This study found no vision-threatening complications in selected patients undergoing LASIK.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Rheumatology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Rheumatic diseases can affect various bodily systems, including the eyes.
- The safety and efficacy of elective refractive surgery like LASIK in patients with controlled rheumatic conditions require careful consideration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and outcomes of LASIK in patients with a history of controlled rheumatic diseases.
- To assess the potential risks and benefits of LASIK for refractive error correction in this specific patient population.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective observational study included 22 patients (42 eyes) with controlled rheumatic diseases undergoing LASIK.
- Preoperative and 6-month postoperative assessments included visual acuity, refraction, and slit-lamp biomicroscopy.
- Outcomes measured visual acuity, refractive error correction, and complications such as dry eye or corneal issues.
Main Results:
- LASIK was performed uneventfully in all patients, with a significant improvement in spherical equivalent from -5.39D to -0.15D.
- Six months post-LASIK, uncorrected visual acuity was 20/25, with 14.3% requiring enhancement procedures.
- No corneal haze, melting, flap, or interface complications were observed; 9.5% developed moderate dry eye syndrome.
Conclusions:
- LASIK appears to be a safe and effective option for refractive error correction in selected patients with controlled rheumatic diseases.
- Favorable visual outcomes were achieved with no operative or vision-threatening complications in this patient cohort.