LASIK vs LASEK vs PRK: advantages and indications

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Excimer laser technology revolutionized refractive surgery.
• Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) are key excimer laser procedures.
• LASIK is the current leading procedure, offering advantages over PRK.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the advantages and disadvantages of LASIK, PRK, and the newer LASEK procedure.
• To highlight the benefits of LASIK, including improved patient comfort and reduced complications.
• To discuss the continued relevance of PRK for specific patient groups and the emerging role of LASEK.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical practices comparing PRK, LASIK, and LASEK.
• Analysis of outcomes related to corneal epithelium preservation, visual recovery, wound healing, and complications.
• Consideration of patient-specific factors influencing procedure choice.

Main Results:

• LASIK offers superior early post-operative comfort, faster visual recovery, and reduced haze compared to PRK.
• PRK remains a viable option for mild-moderate corrections, thin corneas, and high-risk individuals.
• LASEK, a modified PRK, shows potential benefits but requires further clinical validation.

Conclusions:

• LASIK is the dominant refractive surgery due to its favorable outcomes.
• PRK and LASEK remain important alternatives for specific indications.
• Further research is needed to fully establish the long-term efficacy and benefits of LASEK.