Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy for Hyperopia: A 12-Month Bicentral Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Hyperopia correction remains a significant challenge in refractive surgery.
• Transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) offers a flapless approach for corneal refractive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the safety, efficacy, and stability of one-step transepithelial PRK for correcting hyperopia.
• To assess visual outcomes and refractive results following this procedure.

Main Methods:

• An interventional case series involving 55 eyes with hyperopia (0.50 to 6.00 D) and astigmatism (0.00 to -3.00 D).
• One-step transepithelial PRK was performed using an Amaris 500-Hz excimer laser.
• A 12-month follow-up included analysis of visual acuity, manifest refraction, and haze.

Main Results:

• Mean spherical equivalent improved from 2.56 D preoperatively to -0.08 D at 6 months, with minimal regression by 12 months.
• 76.2% of eyes achieved refraction within ±0.50 D at 12 months postoperatively.
• Uncorrected distance visual acuity improved significantly, with 64.2% of eyes achieving 20/25 or better; no eye lost more than one line of corrected distance visual acuity.

Conclusions:

• One-step transepithelial PRK with the Amaris 500-Hz excimer laser yields reasonable outcomes for hyperopia correction.
• The procedure demonstrates safety and efficacy for hyperopia with or without mild to moderate astigmatism.