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Ruptured globe 10 years after radial keratotomy
1Rajendra Prasad Centre for Ophthalmic Sciences, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Journal of Refractive Surgery (Thorofare, N.J. : 1995)
|February 13, 1999
Summary
Corneal rupture can occur over a decade after radial keratotomy (RK). This study reports three cases of globe rupture following blunt trauma long after RK surgery.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Trauma Ophthalmology
Background:
- Radial keratotomy (RK) is a refractive surgical procedure to correct myopia.
- Long-term structural integrity of RK incisions may be compromised.
- Delayed complications following RK are a concern for patient safety.
Observation:
- Three cases of traumatic globe rupture were identified in patients with a history of RK.
- Ruptures occurred 10-13 years post-RK through previous radial incisions.
- Incidents involved activities of daily living, assault, and sports.
Findings:
- Two eyes achieved good visual acuity (≥20/30) after treatment, including penetrating keratoplasty and bandage contact lens.
- One eye resulted in phthisis bulbi due to retinal detachment.
- The keratotomy incision was the site of rupture in all cases.
Implications:
- Ophthalmologists should consider the risk of late globe rupture in patients with a history of RK.
- Patient counseling regarding eye protection after RK is crucial, even years later.
- Further research into the long-term biomechanical properties of RK incisions is warranted.