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Optic neuropathy after epi-LASIK
Sandra R Montezuma1, Simmons Lessell, Roberto Pineda
1Department of Ophthalmology, Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, Boston, Mass 02114, USA. Sandra_Montezuma@meei.harvard.edu
Purpose:
To report a case of optic neuropathy after epi-LASIK.
Methods:
A 24-year-old man developed optic neuropathy after epi-LASIK, possibly related to the barotrauma created by the suction ring. Optic neuropathy and steroid-induced ocular hypertension were diagnosed. Prednisolone drops were discontinued and timolol was started.
Results:
After 2 weeks, his symptoms improved and the pain resolved.
Conclusions:
Optic neuropathy is a potentially vision-threatening complication of epi-LASIK. Barotrauma from a transient increase in intraocular pressure created by the suction ring can be an important factor in this entity.
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