Co-management of refractive eye surgery.

An onslaught of publicity about refractive surgery has led to considerable patient interest in this corrective procedure. Regardless of the optometrist's cautious view of refractive surgery, it is here to stay. We may not be providing appropriate care to our patients if we discuss only its disadvantages. It is imperative that we, as primary eye care providers, educate ourselves as to the advantages and disadvantages of refractive surgery so we can better educate our patients. It is our responsibility to help them decide if they are, indeed, candidates for refractive surgery. This paper provides basic knowledge to familiarize the practicing optometrist with radial keratotomy and excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy. Patient selection, preoperative evaluation and counseling, and postoperative care are discussed. Communication between the co-managing optometrist and refractive surgeon is imperative.