LASIK complications: Etiology, management, and prevention

Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is a rapidly evolving ophthalmic surgi cal procedure. Several anatomic and refractive complications have been iden tified. Anatomic complications include corneal flap abnormalities, epitheli al ingrowth, and corneal ectasia. Refractive complications include unexpect ed refractive outcomes, irregular astigmatism, decentration, visual aberrat ions, and loss of vision. Infectious keratitis, dry eyes, and diffuse lamel lar keratitis may also occur following LASIK. By examining the etiology, ma nagement, and prevention of these complications, the refractive surgeon may be able to improve visual outcomes and prevent vision-threatening problems . Reporting outcomes and mishaps of LASIK surgery will help refine our appr oach to the management of emerging complications. (C) 2001 by Elsevier Scie nce Inc. All rights reserved.