To describe the number of cases and cause of Avellino corneal dystrophy (ACD) exacerbated after LASIK (laser in situ keratomileusis), to study the possible mechanism of exacerbation, and to suggest possible preventive measures and the most suitable treatment modality. Methods: Results: Conclusions:

Twenty-eight (56 eyes) ACD patients who underwent LASIK were enrolled, and 24 parameters including pre-and post-operative best corrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and corneal opacity were analyzed. To evaluate the effect of treatment modality for exacerbated cases after LASIK, the progression of corneal opacity, visual acuity, and contrast sensitivity were compared between the two surgical methods (mechanical removal from LASIK interface with removal of surgical flap and deep lamellar keratoplasty (DLKP)).

All patients showed progression of corneal opacities after LASIK regardless of the type of laser instruments, microkeratomes, or the size or thickness of the LASIK flap. As for treatment of exacerbated ACD patients after LASIK, DLKP showed better results than mechanical removal from the LASIK interface after removal of the surgical flap.

LASIK is contraindicated in any patient with ACD. DLKP could be a good treatment modality for ACD patients with exacerbated conditions after LASIK.