Recent developments in refractive corneal surgery

The 4- and 5-year results of the Prospective Evaluation of Radial Keratotomy Study reveal a hyperopic shift of more than 1.0 D within the follow-up time in 22% and 24%, respectively, of the eyes that underwent radial keratotomy. The number of eyes with this complication increased progressively from 6 months to 4 years. Attempts to correct this progressive hyperopia are discussed. Results of clinical studies of myopic photorefractive keratectomy performed with the excimer laser are reviewed. Regarding safety and short-term efficacy, photorefractive keratectomy is a promising technique. In the past, corneal topography has been interpreted qualitatively. Ray-tracing analysis now allows quantitative estimation of the influence of aspheric corneas on the degradation of the retinal image. Three approaches to correct hyperopia, radial thermokeratoplasty, laser thermokeratoplasty, and hexagonal keratotomy are reviewed and discussed. Additional concave intraocular lenses for correction of high myopia are still undergoing clinical evaluation. Endothelial damage is the most dangerous short-term complication of implantation with these lenses.