Clinical Report: Assessment of Corneal Stability in Myopic Patients After FS-LASIK

Overview

This study evaluates the long-term corneal stability and visual outcomes in myopic patients who underwent FS-LASIK with prophylactic corneal crosslinking (CXL) compared to those who had FS-LASIK alone. Findings suggest that while FS-LASIK Xtra may provide initial benefits in visual stability, the differences diminish over time.

Background

Femtosecond laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (FS-LASIK) is a widely used procedure for myopia correction, but it carries risks of corneal ectasia, particularly in patients with certain risk factors. The introduction of prophylactic CXL aims to enhance corneal biomechanical stability and reduce the incidence of ectasia. Understanding the long-term effects of this combined approach is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.

Data Highlights

No numerical data available in the provided material.

Key Findings

• FS-LASIK Xtra was performed on patients identified as 'borderline' for ectasia risk.
• Patients were monitored for refractive stability and corneal morphology over a two-year period.
• Initial visual outcomes were favorable for FS-LASIK Xtra, but differences in stability compared to FS-LASIK alone were not significant at 24 months.
• Corneal biomechanical properties were assessed preoperatively and at follow-up to evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic CXL.
• Patient selection criteria included age, corneal thickness, and history of eye rubbing, which are critical for minimizing ectasia risk.

Clinical Implications

Surgeons should carefully assess ectasia risk factors in myopic patients considering FS-LASIK and weigh the potential benefits of prophylactic CXL against the lack of significant long-term advantages. Ongoing monitoring of corneal stability and visual outcomes is essential for all patients undergoing refractive surgery.

Conclusion

The study highlights the importance of individualized patient assessment in refractive surgery, particularly regarding the use of prophylactic CXL in high-risk populations. Further research is needed to clarify the long-term benefits of this combined approach.

Related Resources & Content

1. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2011 -- A Closer Look at Corneal Cross-Linking
2. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2018 -- CONTACT LENS CASE REPORTS
3. Contact Lens Spectrum, 2015 -- Corneal Cross-Linking: Past, Present, and Future
4. Refractive Surgery Preferred Practice Pattern® - PubMed, 2023
5. Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology, 2025 -- Corneal stability comparison
6. Contact Lens Spectrum — CONTACT LENS CASE REPORTS
7. Refractive Surgery Preferred Practice Pattern® - PubMed
8. Corneal stability comparison between prophylactic cross-linking with laser refractive surgery technique versus laser refractive surgery technique alone for myopia: a meta-analysis | Graefe's Archive for Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology
9. A prospective randomized self-controlled study of LASIK combined with accelerated cross-linking for high myopia in Chinese: 24-month follow-up | BMC Ophthalmology | Springer Nature Link