[Subjective visual perception after laser treatment of myopia on two types of lasers]

Comparison of subjective evaluation of patients with low and moderate myopia undergoing photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and Laser in Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) on two types of excimer lasers: Schwind Esiris and Schwind Amaris.

Patients were divided into two groups according to the type of laser that was used. Group A comprised of 23 patients (14 females, 9 males) of average age 33.1 years (range 21-51 years), with an average spherical equivalent before operation of -3.5D. Using the excimer laser Esiris (Schwind, Germany), 10 patients had undergone PRK and 13 LASIK. Group B comprised of 32 patients (21 females, 11 males), of average age 31.9 years (range 22-48 years). Median spherical equivalent before operation was -3.05D. With the excimer laser Amaris (Schwind, Germany) 17 patients had undergone PRK and 15 LASIK. For the subjective evaluation we set up a questioner consisting of 21 questions that were aimed on the quality of vision under various illumination types and intensities, vision under various distances, activities and also questions concerning superficial sensitivity of the anterior segment of the eye.

We detected a 100% satisfaction one year after refractive laser treatment with both laser types. Statistical improvement was evident by one month after treatment in both patient groups and upto 12 months it progressively increased. Statistically significant differences were noted one month after treatment, where patients in group B were more satisfied in questions concerning quality of vision, distance vision, while watching TV and driving during daytime and during the night. During further follow-up, results were comparable between both groups.

Temporary patient satisfaction treated with laser Amaris is apparently due to the result of a more sparing treatment and thus fewer changes in the corneal stroma.