Omega-3s prevent complications of laser eye surgeries
Laser vision: fish oil prevents complications of surgery
Laser eye surgery to correct corneal defects can damage nerves. Treatment with Omega 3 can prevent further unpleasant consequences. Jiucheng He and Haydee Bazan, experts from the Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, USA, explain the protective role of these nutrients: particularlyOmega-3 DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The 2 researchers explained that this property makes DHA a possible remedy against one of the most common complications of surgery: dry eye syndrome or hypolacrimia. The scientific information was published in the pages of the journal Prostaglandins, Leukotrienes, and Essential Fatty Acids.
Lasers on the cornea: what are the risks?
The cornea is a transparent tissue on the surface of the eye that protects the innermost structures and transmits and refracts light. The tear film is distributed over its surface. Also present inside are fats that reduce the evaporation of tears and allow their even disposition.Omega-3 ALA (alpha-linolenic acid) is included among these. Laser surgeries to reshape the cornea can damage part of the nerve fibers associated with it. In addition to affecting the sensitivity of the cornea, this damage can reduce tear production. The most common consequence of this is dry eye syndrome, characterized by:
- eye and vision discomfort
- inflammation
- damage to the surface of the eye
Omega-3 for a perfect cornea
Several studies suggest that this syndrome can be prevented by paying attention to the amount and type of fat introduced in the diet:
- women who consume high amounts of Omega-3 reduce the likelihood of suffering from dry eye by 20 percent;
- an unbalanced ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in favor of the former increases the risk of developing it.
The protective role of Omega-3 has been demonstrated by administering a mixture of gamma linolenic acid as well as Omega-3 EPA and DHA (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid) to some animals.
Omega-3s reduce corneal damage
The researchers went even further than the prevention aspect. They have shown thattopical (superficial, without ingestion or injection)application of Omega-3 ALA can reduce corneal damage and symptoms of inflammation. For the scientists, this effect would be mediated by the molecules produced by the body from ALA: EPA, DHA and their derivatives, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, further studies in mice have shown that EPA derivatives have just this effect.
Help after laser surgery
Based on these results, scientists tested on rabbits the effectiveness of DHA treatment in regenerating corneal-associated nerves after laser surgery. Used in combination with different growth factors, this Omega-3 promotes nerve regeneration and recovery of corneal sensitivity2, prevents dry eye syndrome and other possible complications of the operation. Omega-3s could therefore be the new frontier in preventing the consequences of laser-associated nerve damage to the cornea.
Source:
1. He J, Bazan HE, "Omega-3 fatty acids in dry eye and corneal nerve regeneration after refractive surgery," Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids. 2010 Apr-Jun;82(4-6):319-25. Epub 2010 Mar 3.
2. Cortina MS, He J, Li N, Bazan NG, Bazan HE, "Recovery of corneal sensitivity, calcitonin gene-related peptide-positive nerves, and increased wound healing induced by pigment epithelial-derived factor plus docosahexaenoic acid after experimental surgery," Arch Ophthalmol. 2012 Jan;130(1):76-83. Epub 2011 Sep 12.
