Laser in situ keratomileusis surgery is not safe for military personnel

ObjectiveTo investigate the relationship between eye injury and laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) surgery in military personnel.MethodsThis retrospective study collected the data from 27 evacuation hospitals of Chinese army. All medical records of eye injuries in military personnel admitted to the 27 hospitals between January 2006 and December 2010 were reviewed. Patients’ detailed information was analyzed, including the injury time, place, type, cause, as well as examination, treatment and outcome.ResultsThere were 72 eye-injured patients who had been treated by LASIK before. The incidence was rising year by year. Among them, 69 patients were diagnosed with mechanical ocular injury and 3 with non-mechanical ocular injury; 29 patients had traumatic flap-related complications and 21 patients need surgery. There was statistical difference when compared with those having no refractive surgery history. Visual acuity recovered well at discharge.ConclusionThere is a high risk of potential traumatic flap problems after LASIK and it is not recommended in army service.