Clinical Scorecard: Assessment of Corneal Biomechanical Properties Following SMILE and LASEK in Patients with Moderate to High Myopia and Thin Corneas: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis

At a Glance

Key Highlights

• SMILE and LASEK induce fewer biomechanical changes compared to LASIK.
• Study focuses on corneas with CCT ≤ 530 μm, a transitional thickness range.
• Long-term biomechanical stability is critical for surgical success, evaluated at 2 years post-op.

Guideline-Based Recommendations

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive preoperative ophthalmic examination including corneal topography and biomechanics.

Management

• Select surgical technique based on corneal characteristics and patient expectations.

Monitoring & Follow-up

• Evaluate corneal biomechanical properties at 2 years to assess stability and risk of ectasia.

Risks

• Iatrogenic keratectasia is a significant concern in patients with thin corneas.

Patient & Prescribing Data

47 patients (47 eyes) with moderate to high myopia and thin corneas.

SMILE preferred for sufficient corneal thickness; LASEK for thinner corneas and specific occupational needs.

Clinical Best Practices

• Utilize shared decision-making for surgical technique selection.
• Monitor postoperative healing and biomechanical stability over 2 years.

Related Resources & Content

• Corneal Biomechanical Metrics
• SMILE vs LASEK Outcomes