Journal of Refractive Surgery · 2003 · 175 citations · 28 references
MedicineOphthalmologySurgeryAnterior SegmentOphthalmic SurgeryRefractive SurgeryCorneal DiseaseCorneal DisordersCorneal TopographyLaser In Situ KeratomileusisPhotorefractive KeratectomyPreoperative Refractive EvaluationCorneal Topography AssessmentCorneal Topography ScreeningKeratoconus ScreeningMedical Chart ReviewPhotorefractive Keratectomy (Prk)Photorefractive Keratectomy ScreeningPreoperative Refractive Surgery ScreeningRefractive Surgery Assessment
PURPOSE: To review the incidence of corneal abnormalities detected in the preoperative examination, using videokeratography and pachymetry that excluded patients from laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) or photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). METHODS: We conducted a chart review of consecutive patients who had a preoperative examination and were excluded from refractive surgery. RESULTS: Eighteen patients from 1,392 refractive candidates (1.3%) were designated as poor candidates for LASIK or PRK based on corneal topography and/or pachymetry. Thirteen patients (0.9%) were identified as having keratoconus suspect, keratoconus, or pellucid marginal degeneration. Five patients (0.4%) were excluded due to thin corneas (<490 microm) despite normal corneal topography. CONCLUSIONS: Corneal topography and pachymetry are indispensable tools in the preoperative screening of refractive surgery candidates.
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