Oculocardiac reflex during laser in situ keratomileusis.

Purpose: To evaluate the occurrence of oculocardiac reflex during laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK).

Setting: Merida Ophthalmological Hospital, Mexico City, Mexico.

Methods: This study included 20 patients who were given an electrocardiogram prior to, during, and after LASIK. Heart rate was noted before the procedure and during the preparation, placement of the patient under the microscope light, blepharostat application, and suction and laser treatment. The results in 1 eye of each patient were recorded.

Results: In 4 of the 20 patients (20%), the heart rate decreased during suction. In 2 of the 4, the decrease was 30% of baseline. In an additional 4 patients (20%), the heart rate increased more than 20% of baseline. This increase was detected prior to application of the suction ring. In the remaining 12 patients (60%), the heart rate did not change.

Conclusions: Electrocardiographic changes compatible with oculocardiac reflex occurred in 20% of patients in this study. The same percentage showed an increase in heart rate attributable to surgical stress.