LASIK Surgery Rates Increased in 2010
November 11th, 2010
Recently, the International Society of Refractive Surgery (ISRS) announced the results of its yearly survey of refractive surgery among its United States members.
The survey showed an increase in the volume of LASIK surgeries for the first time since 2001.
The survey found that the volume of LASIK surgeries was up 7 percent from two years ago. However, the number of surgeons who identify themselves as high-volume LASIK surgeons (defined as performing 75 surgeries a month) continues to decrease; 27 percent identified themselves as such in 2001 and only 12 percent did this year.
There were also increases in the number of surgeons and their family members who underwent LASIK. In 2010, 28 percent had LASIK surgery and 11 percent reported having surface ablation. By contrast, rates in 2009 for the same procedures were 18 percent and 4 percent, respectively. The survey also showed that nearly one third of the respondents’ spouses, as well as at least one child, underwent surgery for vision correction. Additionally, nearly two-thirds of respondents had at least one sibling who underwent LASIK.
According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), LASIK is a surgical procedure that helps reduce a patient’s dependency on contact lenses or glasses by permanently reshaping the cornea by using a laser.
The majority of patients who have this popular elective surgery are satisfied. However, for some, compilations of LASIK surgery can reduce their visual acuity or visual quality to the point where they have a difficult time working, driving, or pursuing the very activities for which they sought LASIK surgery. Complaints can include dry eye, blurring, and difficulty with light, such as sensitivity, ghosting, glare and halos. In patients with ectasia, or a thinning of the cornea caused by LASIK surgery, cornea transplants may be required.
When performing high-risk surgeries such as LASIK, it is expected that medical professionals will act with the utmost care. Most LASIK lawsuits involve the failure of high volume surgeons to adequately pre-screen patients before surgery.
If you or someone you love has undergone LASIK surgery and suffered permanent visual disability, the nationally recognized LASIK malpractice attorneys at the Law Office of Todd J. Krouner will represent you in court. You may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, loss of life’s enjoyment, loss of income, and more. Our attorneys have obtained the two largest verdicts in the history of LASIK malpractice and will work hard to ensure you are compensated justly. For more information, please contact our office today by calling 914-238-5800 or by emailing Mr. Krouner at info@krounerlaw.com.
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