1. Photorefractive Keratectomy and Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis on 6-Month Space Missions.
- Author
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Gibson CR, Mader TH, Lipsky W, Schallhorn SC, Tarver WJ, Suresh R, Hague TN, and Brunstetter TJ
- Subjects
- Humans, Aerospace Medicine, Myopia surgery, Myopia physiopathology, Astronauts, Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ methods, Photorefractive Keratectomy methods, Space Flight, Visual Acuity physiology
- Abstract
BACKGROUND: This article documents the stability of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) in two astronauts during 6-mo missions to the International Space Station. CASE REPORTS: Ocular examinations including visual acuity, cycloplegic refraction, slit lamp examination, corneal topography, central corneal thickness, optical biometry (axial length/keratometry), applanation tonometry, and dilated fundus examination were performed on each astronaut before and after their missions, and in-flight visual acuity testing was done on flight day 30, 90, and R-30 (30 d before return). They were also questioned regarding visual changes during flight. DISCUSSION: We documented stable vision in both PRK and LASIK astronauts during liftoff, entry into microgravity, 6 mo on the International Space Station, descent, and landing. Our results suggest that both PRK and LASIK are stable and well tolerated during long-duration spaceflight. Gibson CR, Mader TH, Lipsky W, Schallhorn SC, Tarver WJ, Suresh R, Hauge TN, Brunstetter TJ. Photorefractive keratectomy and laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis on 6-month space missions . Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2024; 95(5):278-281.
- Published
- 2024
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