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Central photorefractive keratectomy for myopia. The blind eye study
M B McDonald1, J M Frantz, S D Klyce
1LSU Eye Center, Louisiana State University Medical Center School of Medicine, New Orleans.
Archives of Ophthalmology (Chicago, Ill. : 1960)
|June 1, 1990
Summary
Photorefractive keratectomy using an excimer laser safely corrected myopia in legally blind eyes. The procedure showed good predictability and stability, with minimal regression for mild to moderate myopia.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Laser Surgery
- Corneal Refractive Surgery
Background:
- Myopia correction is a significant area of ophthalmic research.
- Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a common surgical procedure.
- Evaluating PRK in non-standard patient groups is crucial for understanding its full potential.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the safety, efficacy, predictability, and stability of excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for myopia correction.
- To investigate the outcomes in legally blind human eyes prior to a study in sighted individuals.
Main Methods:
- Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) using a 193-nm excimer laser was performed on nine legally blind eyes.
- Outcomes were evaluated over a 6-month period, including reepithelialization time, corneal clarity, keratometry, pachometry, and refractive changes via retinoscopy.
Main Results:
- Reepithelialization was typically complete within 5 days, with no recurrent erosions observed.
- Corneal clarity scores were excellent (0 or 1+), and corneal flattening was stable.
- Refractive predictability was fair at one month, with minimal increase in astigmatism, followed by some regression potentially due to anatomical remodeling.
Conclusions:
- Excimer laser PRK is a safe and effective procedure for myopia correction in legally blind eyes.
- The observed regression was minimal and likely not clinically significant for mild to moderate myopia.
- The findings support further investigation in sighted populations.