Nova Scotians Should Ask About LASIK Corneal Eye Surgery

Provincial Medical Officer Dr. Jeff Scott is advising Nova Scotians to be aware of the risks associated with the LASIK procedure, a type of laser corneal eye surgery that will soon be available through a private clinic in Halifax.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia recently issued a warning about the procedure after the province identified a high complication rate of 20 per cent.

The complication may be related to a toxin produced during equipment sterilization. The problem has not been reported to occur with the previously more common laser procedure of Photorefractive Keratecotomy.

"It is important that Nova Scotians be aware of the potential risks associated with the LASIK procedure," said Dr. Scott. "Individuals considering this alternative method of visual correction should consult their physician or optometrist if they have any questions or concerns."

The complication is called Diffuse Lamellar Keratitia and is also known as Sands of the Sahara Syndrome or Sands. It is an inflammation underneath the flap of the cornea. Problems can occur early after surgery causing the affected eye to be painful and tearful with blurred vision and intolerance of bright light. The condition is easily detected and early treatment appears to lead to better outcomes. In a few cases, however, individuals have been left with some degree of visual loss.

Dr. Scott has been in contact with the Nova Scotia College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Optometrists Society, and Dr. Raymond P. LeBlanc, professor and head of the Department of Ophthalmology at Dalhousie University and chief of ophthalmology at the QEII Eye Care Centre. Information has also been circulated to all ophthalmologists and optometrists across the province.

LASIK refractive surgery uses laser technology to correct near-sightedness, far-sightedness and some degrees of astigmatism.