This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Prevention key to avoiding LASIK complications
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
BOSTON — Comprehensive preoperative evaluation and screening of LASIK patients is imperative to preventing both intraoperative and postoperative complications, according to a surgeon speaking here.
Helen K. Wu, MD, discussed approaches to preventing and managing LASIK complications during a presentation at the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery Summer Refractive Congress. She said severe LASIK complications are rare, but common complications, such as dry eye, can reduce postop uncorrected visual acuity. However, many complications are avoidable with careful planning, appropriate patient counseling and a meticulous intraoperative technique, Dr. Wu said.
For dry eye and blepharitis, the best management approaches include nonpreserved artificial tears, emulsions, gels and ointments. Silicone plugs can also be effective in many patients, she noted.
"When we do see complications, addressing them and treating them early will help prevent significant loss of vision and further headaches," she said.