Photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors

Current evidence suggests that photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors is safe and efficacious for use in appropriately selected patients.

Clinicians undertaking photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors should ensure that patients understand the benefits and potential risks of the procedure. Risks include failure to achieve the expected improvement in unaided vision, development of new visual disturbances, corneal infection and flap complications. These risks should be weighed against those of wearing spectacles or contact lenses.

Clinicians should audit and review clinical outcomes of all patients who have photorefractive (laser) surgery for the correction of refractive errors. Further research will be useful, and clinicians are encouraged to collect longer-term follow-up data.

Clinicians should have adequate training before performing these procedures. The Royal College of Ophthalmologists has produced standards for laser refractive surgery.