High-speed optical coherence tomography for management after laser in situ keratomileusis
Accepted 24 July 2006.
Purpose
To report applications of optical coherence tomography (OCT) in the management of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) related problems.
Setting
Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Methods
Five patients referred for LASIK-related problems were enrolled in a prospective observational study. Clinical examination, ultrasound (US) pachymetry, Placido ring slit-scanning corneal topography (Orbscan II, Bausch & Lomb), and high-speed corneal OCT were performed.
Results
In cases of regression and keratectasia, OCT provided thickness measurements of the cornea, flap, and posterior stromal bed. Locations of tissue loss and flap interface planes were identified in a case with a recut enhancement complication. The information was used to determine whether further laser ablation was safe, confirm keratectasia, and manage complications. Optical coherence tomography measurements of central corneal thickness agreed well with US pachymetry measurements (difference 6.4 μm ± 11.7 [SD]) (P = .026), while Orbscan significantly underestimated corneal thickness (−67.5 ± 72.5 μm) (P = .17).
Conclusions
High-speed OCT provided noncontact imaging and measurement of LASIK anatomy. It was useful in monitoring LASIK results and evaluating complications.
From the Doheny Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology, Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
Corresponding author: David Huang, MD, PhD, 1450 San Pablo Street, DEI 5702, Los Angeles, California 90033, USA.
Supported by grants from NIH (R01 EY013516 and P30 EY03040), Research to Prevent Blindness, Inc., and Carl Zeiss Meditec, Inc.
Dr. Huang has a patent royalty interest in optical coherence tomography technology. Drs. Huang and Li receive research grant support from Carl Zeiss Meditec Inc. Drs. Avila and Song have no financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.
ABSTRACT