Contrast Sensitivity After Wavefront-Guided and Wavefront-Optimized PRK and LASIK for Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Refractive Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Laser vision correction aims to improve visual acuity.
• Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and LASIK are common refractive procedures.
• Wavefront technology offers personalized treatment profiles.

Purpose of the Study:

• Compare contrast sensitivity after wavefront-guided vs. wavefront-optimized PRK and LASIK.
• Evaluate outcomes for myopia and myopic astigmatism 12 months post-surgery.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, randomized clinical trial with 215 participants.
• Compared LASIK vs. PRK with wavefront-guided vs. wavefront-optimized treatments.
• Measured contrast sensitivity and visual acuity at multiple postoperative intervals.

Main Results:

• All groups showed significant improvement in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) at 12 months.
• No significant differences in high or small letter contrast sensitivity between the four treatment groups at 12 months.
• Visual performance recovery was longer for PRK compared to LASIK.

Conclusions:

• Wavefront-guided and wavefront-optimized PRK and LASIK effectively maintain contrast sensitivity and visual function.
• Both treatment types and profiles yielded similar results at 12 months post-surgery.
• PRK requires a longer visual recovery period than LASIK.