Postoperative astigmatism.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmic Surgery
• Corneal Surgery
• Refractive Surgery

Background:

• Significant advancements in surgical methodology over the past two decades have heightened awareness of optical outcomes.
• The advent of refractive surgery emphasizes the importance of uncorrected visual acuity as a measure of success.
• Corneal manipulation during surgery is influenced by multiple variables, impacting the final optical result.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the variables influencing the optical results of ophthalmic surgery, particularly corneal manipulation.
• To discuss the implications of these variables in the context of refractive surgery success.
• To review available surgical procedures for correcting postoperative astigmatism.

Main Methods:

• Review of surgical methodology advancements, including microinstrumentation, operating microscopes, surgical keratometers, and intraocular lenses.
• Analysis of variables affecting corneal optics: wound preparation and closure, suture material, and intraoperative/postoperative manipulations.
• Examination of surgical options for managing postoperative astigmatism.

Main Results:

• Improved surgical techniques and instrumentation have led to greater surgeon and patient focus on visual outcomes.
• Understanding and controlling variables in corneal manipulation are crucial for predictable surgical results.
• Astigmatism remains a potential complication, but effective surgical corrections are available.

Conclusions:

• Modern surgical advancements necessitate a thorough understanding of factors influencing corneal optics.
• Careful management of surgical variables is essential for optimizing visual results in ophthalmic and refractive surgery.
• Surgical correction of postoperative astigmatism is feasible when initial interventions are insufficient.