[Anterior corneal topographic changes after scleral buckling surgery].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate corneal refractive changes after scleral buckling surgery.

METHODS

In a prospective self-controlled clinical study, we investigated the changes of refractive power, astigmatic power, astigmatic axis, and irregular astigmatic power of anterior corneal surface following scleral buckling surgery for retinal detachment in 30 patients (30 eyes). The corneal shapes were detected by Orbscan II topography at 1 day before surgery, and 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months after surgery. The effects of some surgical factors on the anterior corneal refractive changes were analyzed.

RESULTS

After surgery, refractive power on corneal anterior surface decreased significantly in peripheral zone at 1 week (P < 0.01). Astigmatic power increased obviously in central zone. The direction of astigmatic axis matched the direction of the buckle, and changed obviously in central zone after 1 week (P < 0.05). Irregular astigmatic power did not change significantly. There was a significant correlation between the encircling length/the buckle width and the refractive changes of corneal anterior surface.

CONCLUSION

Refractive changes of corneal anterior surface following scleral buckling surgery was mainly temporary. Changes in the shape of corneal should be minimized to ensure a favorable postoperative visual acuity.