Visual, refractive, and keratometric results of radial keratotomy. A two-year follow-up

We report two-year follow-up findings on 142 (91%) of the first 156 radial keratotomies performed. The results are contrasted with our earlier six-month and one-year results and with findings from other studies. Mean spherical equivalent before surgery was -5.0 diopters and two years after surgery was -0.10 D; 51% of the eyes were within 1 D of emmetropia. Uncorrected distance acuity was 20/200 or worse in 96% of the eyes before surgery. At two years, 39% had 20/20 acuity or better and 76% had 20/40 or better. At one year, 49% had 20/20 acuity and 76% had 20/40 acuity or better. Refractive results between one and two years showed an overall increase in mean spherical equivalent of 0.23 D. Our results indicate radial keratotomy to be relatively safe and effective two years after surgery.