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Refractory intraocular pressure increase after photorefractive keratectomy
1Department of Ophthalmology, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Zerifin, Israel.
Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery
|May 1, 1997
Summary
Corticosteroid eye drops can cause dangerous high intraocular pressure (IOP) after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), sometimes requiring surgery. Frequent IOP monitoring and adjusted post-PRK treatment are crucial for patient safety.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Glaucoma Research
Background:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a common refractive surgery.
- Developmental angle anomaly can predispose patients to intraocular pressure (IOP) fluctuations.
- Corticosteroids are frequently used postoperatively to manage inflammation after PRK.
Observation:
- A patient with a developmental angle anomaly experienced a significant increase in IOP after PRK.
- This IOP increase was refractory to standard corticosteroid treatment.
- The patient ultimately required a trabeculectomy to control the elevated IOP.
Findings:
- Corticosteroid-induced refractory IOP increase is a rare but serious complication following PRK.
- Patients with pre-existing angle anomalies may be at higher risk.
- Elevated IOP post-PRK can necessitate surgical intervention like trabeculectomy.
Implications:
- Increased vigilance and more frequent IOP monitoring are recommended for post-PRK patients, especially those with risk factors.
- A re-evaluation of postoperative corticosteroid treatment protocols may be warranted.
- Early detection and management of refractory IOP are critical to prevent vision loss.