Structural Analysis of the Anterior Chamber Using a Rotating Scheimpflug Camera in Eyes Undergoing Laser in situ Keratomileusis

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose:To evaluate structural changes in the anterior chamber after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for myopia. Methods: We examined 16 eyes undergoing LASIK (mean age, 33.6±8.1 years). The volume of the anterior chamber (ACV) and anterior chamber depths (ACDs) (center, mid–periphery, and periphery) were measured using a rotating Scheimpflug camera, Pentacum (Oculus) before and 1 week after surgery. Results:Preoperatively, the refractive error (spherical equivalent) and corneal thickness were –3.90±1.35 diopters and 560.3±28.8 µm, respectively. The maximum ablation depth and flap thickness were 52.7±19.0 µm and 144.2±19.6 µm, respectively. The ACV and ACDs (center, mid–periphery, and periphery) were 193.5±21.3 mm³ and 3.16±0.05, 2.59±0.13, and 1.84±0.17 mm, respectively, preoperatively, and 179.7±29.1 mm³ and 3.07±0.04, 2.47±0.13, and 1.75±0.22 mm, respectively, postoperatively. There were significant decreases in ACV and ACDs (center and mid–periphery) between before and 1 week after LASIK (p=0.045, p=0.0009, and p=0.0005, respectively, paired t–test) but not in the peripheral ACD (p=0.0676, paired t–test). Conclusions: Myopic LASIK induced significant decreases in ACV and ACD from the center to the mid–periphery. These structural changes might affect the refractive results of LASIK.

Keywords: refractive surgery: LASIK • cornea: clinical science • refractive surgery