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[Intraocular pressure in sections with 2 microkeratomes in vitro]
H G Sachs1, C P Lohmann, J P Op de Laak
1Universitäts-Augenklinik, Regensburg.
Summary
Intraocular pressure (IOP) significantly increases during laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) microkeratome use, with potentially dangerous peaks up to 360 mm Hg. Conventional tonometry cannot measure these critical IOP elevations during LASIK surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Surgical Technology
Background:
- New ophthalmic technologies like LASIK present novel complications.
- Limitations of new surgical technologies require precise determination.
- Microkeratome use during LASIK causes intraocular pressure (IOP) elevations undetectable by standard methods.
Purpose of the Study:
- To directly measure IOP during the complete microkeratome treatment process.
- To evaluate IOP fluctuations associated with different microkeratome systems.
Main Methods:
- Utilized enucleated porcine eyes for direct IOP measurement.
- Employed a Statham manometer for precise IOP monitoring during microkeratome use.
- Assessed IOP during both vacuum and lamellar cut phases of two microkeratome systems.
Main Results:
- Observed significant IOP elevations, reaching mean values of 229 mm Hg (Corneal Shaper) and 360 mm Hg (Keratek) during the lamellar cut.
- Recorded substantial IOP increases during the vacuum phase (77-229 mm Hg).
- Noted a sharp drop in IOP to -5 mm Hg in the post-vacuum phase.
Conclusions:
- The study highlights unphysiologically high IOP levels during LASIK procedures.
- These extreme IOP fluctuations may pose risks, particularly for patients with pre-existing ocular conditions.
- Accurate IOP monitoring during microkeratome use is crucial for patient safety.