Related Experiment Videos
Refractive surgery for unilateral high myopia in children
1University of Milan, Department of Ophthalmology, San Paolo Hospital, Milan, Italy.
Summary
Refractive surgery, including LASIK and PRK, is safe and effective for children with high myopia. While it may not fully correct vision in severe amblyopia, it offers modest improvements and no significant complications were observed.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Pediatric Ophthalmology
- Refractive Surgery
Background:
- Unilateral high myopia in children poses challenges for optical correction and visual development.
- Amblyopia therapy is a prerequisite for considering refractive surgery in pediatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the safety and efficacy of refractive surgery (PRK or LASIK) in pediatric patients with unilateral high myopia.
- To assess changes in visual acuity, refractive error, and stereopsis following surgery.
Main Methods:
- Pediatric patients (9+ years) with unilateral high myopia underwent PRK or LASIK under topical anesthesia.
- Preoperative and 20-month postoperative measurements included refraction, visual acuity, and stereopsis.
- All patients had completed prior amblyopia therapy.
Main Results:
- Fourteen eyes of 14 patients (ages 9-14) were treated; average preoperative acuity was 20/147, improving to 20/121 postoperatively.
- Average refractive error shifted from -7.96 D to -0.67 D at 20 months, with a non-significant myopic shift of -0.22 D.
- Vision improved by 1-2 lines in 5 patients; no vision loss occurred. Stereopsis was maintained in all patients.
Conclusions:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) are safe and effective for cooperative children requiring refractive correction.
- Surgery provides modest visual improvement in mild amblyopia but not dense amblyopia.
- A slight myopic shift over time was the only significant finding, with no major complications.