[Corneal biomechanics: Corvis® ST parameters after LASIK]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomechanical Engineering
• Corneal Physiology

Background:

• Corneal refractive surgery, including LASIK, is known to modify the cornea's biomechanical properties.
• Understanding these changes is crucial for assessing corneal health and surgical outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of LASIK on corneal biomechanical parameters using the Corvis® ST tonometer (CST).

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study involving 51 eyes of 32 myopic patients.
• Corvis® ST tonometer (CST) measurements were taken 1 day pre-surgery and at 1-month follow-up.
• LASIK procedures utilized mechanical flap creation and an excimer laser platform.

Main Results:

• Significant alterations were observed in CST parameters including applanation length, deflection lengths and amplitudes, peak distance, and radius of curvature.
• Positive correlations were found between changes in radius of curvature and manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE).
• Ablation depth correlated positively with changes in intraocular pressure, with multiple regression confirming significant CST parameter differences.

Conclusions:

• LASIK surgery significantly alters multiple corneal biomechanical parameters measured by CST.
• These findings suggest that corneal flap creation and/or ablation significantly impact the cornea's energy absorption and dissipation capabilities.