Penetrating keratoplasty for severe complications of radial keratotomy

Severe sight-threatening complications were seen in five eyes of three patients following improperly performed radial keratotomy. All patients exhibited neovascularization of the incision sites, severe stromal scarring or ulceration involving the visual axis, loss of the anterior chamber, and iridocorneal adhesions. These complications necessitated multiple and complex surgical interventions, including penetrating keratoplasty and anterior segment reconstruction. Final visual acuity was decreased to light perception in four eyes while one eye achieved 6/60 vision following repeated penetrating keratoplasty. The success and safety of radial keratotomy rely on careful case selection, appropriate instrumentation, specialized training, and the ability to perform complex secondary procedures to correct surgical complications.