The Change of Axial Length after Laser in-Situ Keratomileusis

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: We prospectively conducted this study to evaluate the effect of laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) on axial length because axial length is an important varible for IOL power calculation. METHODS: One hundred three eyes of fifty two myopic patients had measurements of axial length, ultrasonic central pachymetric readings and otherwise preoperatively and 3 months after LASIK. RESULTS: The axial length and central corneal thickness were reduced statistically significant 3 months after LASIK by 66+/-0.28 micrometer and 57+/-23 micrometer respectively (P0.05) CONCLUSIONS: But the reduction of axial length after LASIK is so small that very small influence is expected on IOL power calculation for the patient who had previous LASIK. So when preoperative IOL power calculation is done using historical method, post-LASIK axial length can be replaced for pre-LASIK axial length to calculate proper IOL power for cataract surgery.