Predicting Success: The Crucial Role of Preoperative Data in Refractive Surgery Outcomes

Refractive surgery, which includes techniques such as Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK), Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) and Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE), has revolutionized ophthalmology by offering advanced solutions for vision correction. However, the choice of the technique to be used in the individual patient is highly dependent on a thorough preoperative evaluation. This retrospective study aims to investigate how preoperative parameters, including corneal thickness, topography, and refraction, affect long-term post-operative clinical outcomes. Through a systematic review of the literature published between 2000 and 2023, we identify the main predictors of success for each surgical technique. This study emphasizes the importance of personalized surgical strategies based on meticulous preoperative analysis.

Autologous blood in the management of ocular surface disorders

Autologous blood therapy has emerged as a promising modality in managing ocular surface disorders. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current literature regarding the use of autologous blood in ocular surface disorders, encompassing its physiological basis, clinical applications, techniques, challenges, and future perspectives. The ocular surface, comprising the cornea, conjunctiva, and tear film, plays a critical role in maintaining visual function, and its disruption can lead to various pathological conditions. With its rich composition of growth factors, cytokines, and other bioactive molecules, autologous blood offers therapeutic potential in promoting corneal wound healing, reducing inflammation, and improving tear film stability. Clinical studies have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of autologous blood therapy in diverse ocular surface disorders, including persistent epithelial defects, neurotrophic keratopathy, and dry eye disease. However, challenges such as variability in treatment response, adverse effects, and optimal patient selection remain areas of concern. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of action, refine treatment protocols, and explore synergistic approaches with other therapeutic modalities. Despite these challenges, autologous blood therapy holds promise as a valuable adjunctive treatment option for ocular surface disorders, offering new avenues for improving patient outcomes and quality of life. This review examines the mechanisms underlying ocular surface disorders while discussing existing autologous blood-based therapies for managing these disorders. Current clinical trials are also summarized, and a comparison between autologous blood therapy and conventional eyedrops is attempted. Finally, safe techniques and protocols for autologous blood medicine are elucidated, and adverse effects and future perspectives of this novel therapy are reviewed.