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Ascorbate prophylaxis for corneal haze after photorefractive keratectomy
Aleksandar Stojanovic1, Amund Ringvold, Tore Nitter
1Eye Department, University Hospital of North Norway, University of Tromsø, SynsLaser Clinic, Tromsø, Trondheim, Norway. aleks@online.no
Summary
Oral ascorbic acid may reduce corneal haze after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK). This study found lower average haze levels and no late-onset haze in patients supplemented with ascorbic acid post-PRK.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Corneal haze is a potential complication following photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
- Understanding factors influencing haze development is crucial for improving surgical outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of prophylactic systemic ascorbic acid on corneal haze after PRK.
- To assess both the average haze levels and the incidence of late-onset corneal haze.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective comparison of two consecutive PRK patient groups.
- One group received oral ascorbic acid supplementation, while the control group did not.
- Haze intensity was graded, and late-onset haze was defined as grade 2 or higher between 4-12 months post-surgery.
Main Results:
- The ascorbic acid group exhibited significantly lower average haze levels at multiple time points post-PRK compared to the no-ascorbate group.
- A statistically significant reduction in haze was observed at 1 week, 1, 3, and 6 months.
- Late-onset corneal haze (grade ≥2) occurred in 11 eyes without ascorbate, versus none in the ascorbate group (P<.02).
Conclusions:
- Oral ascorbic acid supplementation appears to have a prophylactic effect against corneal haze development after PRK.
- Further randomized, prospective clinical trials are needed to confirm the efficacy of routine prophylactic ascorbate use.