Clinical characteristics of interface fluid syndrome after LASIK: a systematic review

Objective

To evaluate the clinical features of interface fluid syndrome (IFS) after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Wanfang Database, and Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database for literature reports on IFS published from 1999 to 2021.Article selection, data extraction, quality rating, and data analysis were performed with reference to the PRISMA statement for priority reporting entities of systematic reviews and Meta-analysis.

Results

A total of 30 publications were included, including 46 cases (62 eyes). Among them, 34 cases (47 eyes) were male and 12 cases (15 eyes) were female.Age ranged from 19 to 69 years with a mean of (36.57±13.40) years.There were 16 cases of bilateral eyes and 30 cases of monocular eyes.The 85.48% (53/62) of IFS was due to increased intraocular pressure (IOP) after LASIK.All 62 eyes included had decreased visual acuity.The 24.19% (15/62) of the affected eyes had ocular pain, redness, and photophobia.All 46 patients showed different degrees of corneal edema and interface fluid.Keratic precipitates and anterior chamber cells were visible in 9.68% (6/62) of the affected eyes, and 16.13% (10/62) showed visual field damage.IOP-lowering eye drops were given to 77.42% (48/62) of eyes.Of the 31 patients (40 eyes) with prognostic descriptions, and 75.00% (30/40) recovered their vision with treatment and 25.00% (10/40) did not.

Conclusions

IFS is a rare complication after LASIK.It should be considered in patients with corneal edema after LASIK.Proper measurement of IOP and reasonable application of glucocorticoids and IOP-lowering drops can prevent irreversible vision loss.

Laser in situ keratomileusis; Interface fluid syndrome; High intraocular pressure; Systematic review