Working out the mystery of ectasia risk with artificial intelligence

This article was reviewed by Renato Ambrósio, Jr, MD, PhD Ectasia is an intriguing and mysterious complication of laser-vision-correction (LVC) procedures. The potentially devastating problem underscores the importance of determining the susceptibility of the cornea for developing progressive ectasia, and of going beyond detecting just mild or subclinical keratoconus. The corneal structure as well as the potential impact of LVC should be considered to predict ectasia risk in every patient. "The LVC procedure and eye rubbing are the primary environmental culprits in the development of ectasia in any cornea," said Renato Ambrósio, Jr, MD, PhD. "So, a basic factor for avoiding ectasia is educating the patient not to rub the eye."