Scleral lenses in the treatment of post-LASIK ectasia and superficial neovascularization of intrastromal corneal ring segments.

OBJECTIVE: This case report aims to explore the use of scleral lenses for the treatment of ocular and visual complications in an adult patient presenting with post-LASIK (Laser-Assisted in situ Keratomileusis) ectasia in both eyes with cross-linking in the right eye and intrastromal corneal ring segments (ICRS; Intacs, Addition Technology, Fremont, CA) in the left eye.

METHODS: Following a comprehensive eye exam and specific testing for contact lens fitting, scleral lenses were fitted with success in both eyes and dispensed. Due to progressive fibrosis and neovascularization of the inferior ICRS in the left eye, the inferior ICRS was removed and scleral lenses were refit with success.

RESULTS: Prescribed scleral lenses helped the patient achieve optimal visual correction (20/20) as well as ocular protection of the cornea.

CONCLUSION: Post-LASIK ectasia is a common finding among contact lens specialists today. When ICRS surgery is involved, the fitting of contact lenses may become more challenging. Scleral lenses offer a unique way of addressing many issues raised in this case report including corneal neovascularization and ectasia. This lens modality may be considered for any other case involving irregular corneal curvature following surgery resulting in reduced visual acuity.