Interface Fluid Syndrome Following LASIK Surgery - A Retrospective Pooled Analysis and Systematic Review of the Literature.

Abstract

Descriptive Abstract

Interface fluid syndrome (IFS) is a complication associated with LASIK surgery where a fluid pocket in the corneal stroma decreases visual acuity. A systematic review of IFS cases using PRISMA guidelines was performed yielding a total of 33 patients. Two outcomes were selected for logistic regression analysis: final BCVA and need for surgical management. Results showed 33.3% of patients required surgery, 51.5% had their IFS resolve within 1 month or sooner, and 51.5% had final BCVA 20/25 or better. Higher presenting IOP and duration of IFS ≤ 1 month was associated with higher odds of final BCVA 20/25 or better (aOR 1.12, p = 0.04; aOR 7.71, p = 0.02, respectively). Endothelial cell dysfunction led to 17.55 greater odds for requiring surgical compared to medical management (aOR 0.36, p = 0.04). Presenting IOP and duration of IFS predicted final BCVA, while prior endothelial cell dysfunction predicted need for surgery.