Excimer laser in situ keratomileusis for severe ametropia after penetrating keratoplasty

Objective: To evaluate the effects of laser in situ keratomileusis in correcting severe myopia and astigmatism after penetrating keratoplasty. Methods: Laser in situ keratomileusis was performed to correct high ametropia in nine eyes of nine patients who had previously undergone penetrating keratoplasty. Results : After laser in situ keratomileusis, all grafts remained clear and no corneal graft rejection occurred during the follow-up period. The average spherical equivalent refraction decreased from -12.17 diopters preoperatively to -3.56 diopters postoperatively and the average cylinder from 6.39 diopters to 2.78 diopters. The highest cylinder correction attempt was 10.00 diopters. The uncorrected visual acuity and the best corrected visual acuity improved for all patients. Conclusion : Laser in situ keratomileusis is a safe and effective method for treating high ametropia after penetrating keratoplasty.