Wavefront aberrations from corneal ectasia after laser in situ keratomileusis demonstrated by InterWave aberrometry

J Refract Surg. 2004 Mar-Apr;20(2):170-5. doi: 10.3928/1081-597X-20040301-13.

Abstract

Purpose: To report a case of corneal ectasia after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). The patient presented with minimal alterations in manifest refraction but had obvious distortions in the wavefront error of the eye, as demonstrated by InterWave aberrometry.

Methods: Retrospective case report and literature review.

Results: Three years following uneventful and initially successful LASIK and two subsequent enhancement procedures, a patient experienced a decrease in uncorrected and best spectacle-corrected visual acuity with only minor changes in manifest refraction and initially subtle changes on corneal topography. InterWave aberrometry showed a wavefront distortion consistent with progressive steepening of the anterior cornea, reflecting possible development of corneal ectasia.

Conclusions: InterWave aberrometry in conjunction with corneal topography was useful for early recognition of the development of corneal ectasia after LASIK.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cornea / pathology*
  • Corneal Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Corneal Topography*
  • Dilatation, Pathologic
  • Humans
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ*
  • Male
  • Postoperative Complications*
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Visual Acuity