posterior segment complications following laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (lasik): a report of 5 cases

purpose: to report complications involving the posterior segment after laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (lasik) in 5 myopic patients ranging in age from 26 to 38 years. patients and findings: case one developed bilateral cilioretinal artery obstruction in association with ischemic optic neuropathy. case two presented with nonsimultaneous bilateral delayed-onset optic neuropathy. in case three, aggravation of the symptoms and signs of stargardt's maculopathy was noticed. case four showed rapid progression and worsening of diabetic retinopathy in both her eyes. in case five, early onset unilateral macular hemorrhage was observed. conclusion: the increased intraocular pressure during lasik surgery may disturb blood flow in posterior ciliary arteries and choroid. the deleterious effect of lasik on ocular circulation may result in sight threatening complications in predisposed patients.