LASIK surgery safe for the eyes

LASIK procedure is becoming increasingly popular with no ill effects, but it runs a slight risk of contracting a potentially damaging eye infection, according to a report. LASIK (laser in-situ keratomileusis) is a surgical correction for near- and far-sightedness.

One major risk factor, according to Dr. Robert Maloney, a LASIK surgeon in private practice in Los Angeles, California, and a spokesperson for the American Academy of Ophthalmology, are discount LASIK centers that cut costs by omitting steps intended to thwart infection, such as the use of protective gloves or prepping the eye with antiseptic solution before surgery.

Dr. Shmuel Levartovsky of Barzilai Medical Center in Ashkelon, Israel, and colleagues report on three cases of bacterial keratitis, an infectious inflammation of the cornea.

"Although most infections can be treated successfully with topical antibiotics, some may result in corneal scarring and irregularities, requiring further surgical interventions" .

In some cases, the eye infection may adversely affect the final visual ability of the eye. Nevertheless, the study authors stress the fact that such infections seem to be rare.

The study authors conclude that such eye infection complications "should be discussed with patients who are considering undergoing this elective procedure."