Abstract
Purpose::
To determine the long-term visual results and outcome of excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) for recurrent corneal erosions.
Methods::
A retrospective chart review of 26 eyes of 23 patients with recurrent corneal erosions treated by PTK from 1996 to 2000 was performed. All eyes had failed to respond to conventional therapy. Data regarding the preoperative and postoperative best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), symptomatic relief, incidence of recurrence, and complications arising from the laser treatment were analyzed. The mean duration of symptoms prior to PTK was 18 months (range, 8 to 36 months). The corneal epithelium was debrided, and laser ablation was performed to a depth of 5 micron with an ablation zone of 7 to 9 mm, using the Technolas 217C Plano Scan excimer laser. Mean postoperative follow-up was 84 months (range, 62 to 108 months).
Results::
At the last follow-up visit, 17 eyes (65.38%) were free of symptoms. Five eyes (19.2%) had occasional mild symptoms of irritation and photophobia upon awakening. Recurrence of painful corneal erosions occurred in four eyes (15.38%), which required a PTK retreatment. Twenty four eyes had a preserved or improved BCVA, while 2 eyes showed deterioration of 1 line on Snellen testing. Twelve eyes had no change in SE; the rest had a change of less than +/-0.75 diopters. There were no major complications during the follow-up period.
Conclusions::
Excimer PTK is a safe and effective procedure for relieving symptoms and improving the visual acuity in patients with recurrent corneal erosions refractory to conventional treatment.
Clinical Trial::
Observational case serie
Keywords: refractive surgery • refractive surgery: optical quality • refractive surgery: other technologies