The laser in situ keratomileusis (ie, LASIK) procedure reshapes the surface of the cornea to focus visual images directly onto the retina, thereby improving visual acuity. In 1998, approximately 420,000 LASIK procedures were performed in the United States, and approximately two million people throughout the world already are benefiting from the LASIK vision correction procedure. AORN J 71 (May 2000) 963–983.