Mean astigmatism at initial examination was 1.91 D, although mean astigmatism on the basis of the most recent examination was 2.19 D. Metrics evaluated included refractive status, visual acuity, aeromedical waiver status, safety data, and the development of corneal ectasia.įINDINGS: Seventy-six subjects were tracked for up to 10 years, with an average follow-up period of 5.5 years. METHODS: Subjects were identified on the basis of their enrollment in the Excessive Astigmatism Management Group maintained by the Aeromedical Consultation Service, Ophthalmology branch at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio.
The goal of this study was to evaluate the long-term outcomes of pilot applicants waivered into training with astigmatism exceeding the aeromedical standard. Although typically a benign finding, higher levels of astigmatism may be progressive and can be associated with corneal ectasia (e.g., keratoconus or pellucid marginal degeneration) leading to reduced visual acuity with spectacles and/or soft contact lenses. However, waivers are considered for individuals with up to 3.00 D of astigmatism. Air Force medical standards allow applicants to enter pilot training with up to 1.50 D of astigmatism.
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