Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To evaluate Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis (LASEK) for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism. Methods: 100 consecutive eyes with no corneal pathology or previous surgery underwent LASEK using the Summit Technology Apex Plus laser. The mean spherical equivalent was -5.05D (range-1.25D to -12.5D). The mean cylindrical correction was -1.95D (range-1 to -4.75D). The epithelial flap was created using 15% alcohol applied for 20 seconds using a similar technique to that described by Camellin. Results: A satisfactory, intact epithelial flap was achieved in 98% of eyes. Most patients did not experience significant ocular discomfort during the first 24 hours after surgery. Epithelial closure was seen in all eyes by 3 days. At one week 92% of eyes could be corrected to 20/40 or better. Mean follow-up was 6 months (range 3 to 12 months). At the last post-operative visit 80% of eyes were within +/-0.5D and 98% within +/-1.0D of emmetropia. In 76% of eyes, no corneal haze was detectable at the last follow-up visit. In only one eye was there more than a trace of haze. No eyes lost more than one line of best corrected Snellen acuity. Conclusion: In this medium term study LASEK appears to offer excellent refractive correction, with limited post-operative discomfort, fairly rapid visual recovery, little corneal haze and few complications.
Keywords: 544 refractive surgery • 549 refractive surgery: other technologies