Neurotrophic keratopathy and refractive surgery

Joseph Kristan, Joann J. Kang

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

3 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of reviewCorneal nerve function is an important consideration for the refractive surgeon. In patients without a history of neuropathy, refractive surgery can lead to destruction of corneal nerves and may predispose to keratopathy. The purpose of this review is to provide an update on the effect of refractive surgery on corneal nerve function and the potential for an increased risk of neurotrophic keratopathy development.Recent findingsRecent studies have reinforced that refractive surgery can cause anatomical and functional changes in corneal nerve function. Among the most commonly performed refractive surgery procedures are Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis, Photorefractive Keratectomy, and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction. Due to differences in technique, these procedures can have varying effects on corneal nerve structure. Using in vivo confocal microscopy, postrefractive patients were found to have decreased total nerve density when compared with controls in the immediate postoperative period. In some studies, patients have been shown to undergo re-innervation and regain significant amounts of nerve function. The majority of studies have found that despite decreased nerve cell density, long-Term outcomes of refractive surgery patients are generally favorable. However, loss of corneal nerve function can lead to a variety of serious effects ranging from dry eye disease, corneal hypoesthesia/anesthesia, neuropathic pain, to neurotrophic keratopathy and ulceration in the rare cases.SummaryNeurotrophic keratopathy is a rare occurrence after keratorefractive surgery and is largely due to damage to corneal nerves. Proper patient selection and counseling are essential to decrease the risk of development of this devastating complication.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)315-318
Number of pages4
JournalCurrent opinion in ophthalmology
Volume32
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jul 1 2021

Keywords

  • corneal nerves
  • neurotrophic keratopathy
  • refractive surgery

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Ophthalmology

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