Visual quality of Q-value-guided LASIK in the treatment of high myopia

To compare visual performance and patient satisfaction following Q-value-guided customized laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and standard LASIK in the treatment of high myopia.

A total of 116 patients with high myopia (-6.00 to -9.50D; astigmatism from -0.00 to -2.00D) were treated using Z-217 excimer laser (Bausch & Lomb). Sixty-six patients (132 eyes) receiving Q-value-guided customized LASIK were assigned into the experimental group, and 50 cases (100 eyes) receiving standard LASIK were used as normal controls. All subjects were followed up for > 6 months to monitor for night vision problems measure postoperative quality of life.

In the experimental group, night vision acuity decreased in 3 cases (4.5%), and glare was reported in 13 patients (19%) during the 6-month follow up period. In the control group, night vision problems were noted in 9 cases (18%), and glare occurred in 21 patients (42%). These differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P<0.05). According to the postoperative questionnaire, satisfaction with visual performance and quality of life was reported in 73% of the experimental group, and 52% of the control group (P<0.05).

Patients with high myopia surgically treated by Q-value-guided LASIK had better night-time visual performance and a higher degree of satisfaction compared with subjects receiving standard LASIK.