[Reoperations after LASIK].
BACKGROUND
Repeat operations after refractive surgery have increased in frequency during the past 10 years. The spectrum of the indications for repeat LASIK may have changed.


METHODS
All cases of repeat operations after refractive surgery performed between May 1, 2004 and April 30, 2005 at the Institute of Refractive and Ophthalmic Surgery (IROC) were retrospectively investigated regarding indication for repeat surgery and visual and refractive results. The 1-month results were used to estimate the refractive and visual success rate.


RESULTS
Of the 76 reoperations, 69 were performed as re-lifts, 3 eyes had new lamellae cut, and 3 cases needed keratoplasties. The reoperations took place 7.5 +/- 13 months after the primary operation (range 0.5 to 60 months). The most frequent indication was residual astigmatism of 0.5 D and more. Visual loss of more than 1 decimal line did not occur and unaided visual acuity increased from 0.64 to 1.05. No complications were reported, however, 3 eyes needed additional enhancement.


CONCLUSIONS
Reoperations after LASIK performed as re-lifts appear to be effective and reasonably safe when using the technique described and respecting a residual stromal thickness of 280 microns.
Seiler
T
T
Institut für Refraktive und Ophthalmo-Chirurgie (IROC), Zürich, Schweiz. info@iroc.ch
Hafezi
F
F
Iseli
H P
HP
Koller
T
T
Alkara
N
N
D015897:Comorbidity; D005858:Germany / Q000453:epidemiology; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D011183:Postoperative Complications / Q000453:epidemiology*; D012030:Refractive Errors / Q000453:epidemiology*; D054140:Refractive Surgical Procedures; D012086:Reoperation / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D017211:Treatment Failure; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014786:Vision Disorders / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000517:prevention & control*