[Influence of cornea thickness changes after refractive surgery on intraocular pressure measurements].

PURPOSE: Assessment of influence of of the cornea thickness decrease on intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements with Goldmann applanation tonometry in patients after refractive surgery procedures (PRK and LASIK). MATERIAL AND METHODS: 80 eyes in 40 patients (pts) qualified for myopia correction with laser surgery were divided into two groups: in Ist group--20 pts (40 eyes)--PRK procedure was performed and in IInd group--40 eyes (20 pts) LASIK was performed. IOP was measured by Goldmann applanation tonometry. The cornea thickness was assessed in its central region with endothelial microscope with pachymetric facility (Cooper Vision). The eyes were evaluated twice: before and 1 month after the procedure. RESULTS: In all eyes after laser surgery procedures IOP was lower because of the decrease of central cornea thickness. CONCLUSIONS: The central cornea thickness is an important factor influencing intraocular pressure measurements with Goldmann applanation tonometry. Refractive surgery procedures leading to the decrease of central cornea thickness result in lower intraocular pressure measurements in applanation tonometry.