Permanent grounding of a USAF pilot following photorefractive keratectomy.

Introduction: Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) has been extensively studied in the literature and its potential application in aircrew has not gone unnoticed. Complication rates following corneal refractive surgery (CRS), including PRK and laser in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK), remain low, with most patients achieving improved uncorrected visual acuity and reduced spectacle dependence. Overall, predictability, low complication rates, high rate of success, stability, and safety have all been cited as instrumental in the adoption of PRK in aviators.

Intraocular lens and corneal status following aircraft ejection by a USAF aviator.

Prior to 1967, military aviators who developed visually significant cataracts that affected visual performance were grounded. Those that ultimately required surgical removal were permanently grounded because of significant optical effects post-operatively. With the advent of contact lenses, a limited number of aircrew were returned to the cockpit because of improved optical factors provided by contacts post-cataract surgery.

Primary idiopathic optic neuritis in U.S. Air Force Aviators.

The records of 31 male aviators seen at the Ophthalmology Branch of the USAF Aeromedical Consultation Service (formerly the USAF School of Aerospace Medicine) for a diagnosis of primary idiopathic optic neuritis (PION) were reviewed. Each subject received comprehensive ophthalmologic and neurologic examinations. The long-term follow-up data were collected through repeat examinations and by survey.