Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of Excimer Laser Keratorefractive Surgery in U.S. Army Soldiers using the latest Battlefield Technologies

摘要

Despite the proven safety and efficacy of laser refractive surgery in improving uncorrected vision, several important issues require further analysis in the armed forces. Visual performance under low light illumination, cockpit performance in military aviators, ability to meet accession and retention standards, and resistance to trauma are among some of the unique considerations of the active duty military. The current study comprises a comprehensive evaluation of safety, efficacy and visual performance after laser refractive surgery. Initial studies cover surgical procedures and pre- and post- operative assessment of visual performance, refractive error and stability, and ocular integrity. Subsequent phases address military operational factors, including occupation-specific visual requirements and effects of various operational environments. Additional militarily relevant investigations will address emerging technologies, both military and medical, as they apply to refractive surgery in the US service men and women. To date, we have enrolled and treated over 500 subjects in one of 16 approved protocols (9 ongoing and 7 completed). We have published 15 peer-reviewed papers, and presented 8 papers and 22 abstracts at national or international meetings. We have research collaborations with a number of DoD and civilian academic institutions including the US Army Night Vision Laboratory and Electronic Sensor Directorate, the US Army Aviation Research Laboratory, the Naval Medical Center San Diego, Stanford Research Institute, the US Army Center for Health Promotion and Preventative Medicine, the Schepens Eye Research Institute, Harvard Medical School, University of Virginia, James Madison University, and Eastern Virginia Medical School. This report will cover the accomplishments of the program to date and outline future directions and goals for the program.