Question

A 15 year old girl patient does not want to use specs for myopic astigmatism. What is the best alternative for her?

• A. ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
• B. FEMTO Lasik
• C. LASIK
• D. Spherical Specs

Hint:

LASIK requires the patient to be at least 18 years old; look for the reversible phakic lens option.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Why is LASIK not suitable?
The minimum age for LASIK surgery is 18 years. This patient is only 15 years old, so LASIK and FEMTO-LASIK are contraindicated because the refractive error is still likely to be changing (the eye has not reached refractive stability). Performing laser refractive surgery on an eye with a changing prescription leads to unpredictable results and regression.

Step 2: What is ICL?
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a micro-thin phakic intraocular lens placed inside the eye between the iris and the natural crystalline lens. It can correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism over a wide range. The procedure is reversible, which is an additional advantage in younger patients whose refraction may still shift. It is also preferred for patients with thin or irregular corneas where laser surgery is not appropriate.

Step 3: Assess the options.
Since LASIK and FEMTO-LASIK are age-restricted, and the patient refuses specs, ICL is the safest and most effective refractive correction option available for a 15-year-old with myopic astigmatism.

Conclusion: The correct answer is ICL.