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Keratoconus is an eye disease which occurs in a small percentage of the population. It is relevant to laser eye surgery in two ways: (1) It is extremely important to detect any signs of keratoconus (including forme fruste keratoconus) prior to getting laser eye surgery, particularly LASIK, because this condition will place the patient at high risk. Keratoconus is detected with corneal topography, however, the interpretation of topography in pre-operative evaluations has evolved considerably over the years. (2) LASIK can cause keratoconus; keratoconus occurring under these circumstances is often called secondary keratoconus, iatrogenic keratoconus, or (more commonly) corneal ectasia. See ectasia listing for more details.
Keratoconus is a progressive condition causing poorer vision as it progresses. In early stages it can often be managed with rigid gas permeable contact lenses. INTACS are increasingly being used in treatment of keratoconus as well. When advanced, corneal transplantation is often required. |
