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Ruptured globes following radial and hexagonal keratotomy surgery
P F Vinger1, W F Mieler, J H Oestreicher
1Department of Ophthalmology, Tufts Medical School, Medford, Mass., USA.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|February 1, 1996
Summary
Radial keratotomy (RK) surgery can weaken the cornea, leading to traumatic globe rupture. Patients with RK should be aware of this increased risk of eye injury.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Radial keratotomy (RK) is an incisional refractive surgical procedure.
- Concerns exist regarding the long-term structural integrity of the cornea after RK.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence of traumatic globe rupture through corneal incisions following RK.
- To determine if corneal incisions from RK are a site of globe rupture.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature review and case collection of traumatic ruptured globes after incisional corneal refractive surgery.
- Inclusion of data from ophthalmologists and ophthalmic literature.
Main Results:
- Twenty-eight cases of globe rupture through RK incisions were identified.
- Ruptures occurred during daily activities, assault, motor vehicle accidents, and sports.
- Visual outcomes varied, with some eyes recovering good vision, while others experienced total or legal blindness.
Conclusions:
- The incidence of traumatic globe rupture through RK incisions is documented.
- Patients who have undergone RK have a weakened cornea and an increased risk of globe rupture.
- Awareness of this risk is crucial for all RK patients.