Loss of vision after laser in situ keratomileusis.
OBJECTIVE
To research the incidence of visual loss after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).


METHODS
We reviewed an extensive review of the literature published by The Ophthalmic Technology Assessment Committee of the American Academy of Ophthalmology regarding the safety and efficacy of LASIK. We also reviewed other recent literature.


RESULTS
For low to moderate myopia and astigmatism, LASIK is efficient, safe, and predictable with few eyes losing two or more lines of best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). For moderate to high myopia, the results are more variable and more eyes lost two or more lines BCVA. In both cases, this BCVA occurred in studies published on or before 1999.


CONCLUSIONS
Serious adverse complications leading to significant visual loss are probably rare. Continued development of microkeratomes and laser technology are continuing to reduce the rare complications that do occur and improve functional outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Doughman
Donald J
DJ
Department of Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota Health Sciences, Minneapolis, MN 55455, USA. dough001@umn.edu
Hardten
David R
DR
D006801:Humans; D006956:Hyperopia / Q000601:surgery*; D015994:Incidence; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000009:adverse effects*; D009216:Myopia / Q000601:surgery*; D012449:Safety; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000209:etiology*; D014792:Visual Acuity