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Photorefractive keratectomy for myopia using a 4.5-millimeter ablation zone
G O Waring1, M A O'Connell, R K Maloney
1Department of Ophthalmology, Emory University, Atlanta, Ga, USA.
Summary
Argon fluoride excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy effectively reduced myopia in 100 patients. Most achieved good visual acuity with mild corneal haze, indicating safety and efficacy for vision correction.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Refractive Surgery
Background:
- Investigating the efficacy and safety of Argon fluoride (193 nm) excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for myopia correction.
- Study conducted as part of a Phase IIB FDA-approved protocol.
Observation:
- 100 patients with myopia (mean age 35) underwent photorefractive keratectomy using a 4.5-mm ablation diameter.
- 80 patients were followed for 1 year post-procedure.
Findings:
- At 1 year, 75% of eyes achieved correction within +/- 1.00 D of attempted correction.
- 63% achieved uncorrected visual acuity of 20/25 or better.
- 96% showed absent to mild central subepithelial corneal haze at 12 months.
Implications:
- Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy is generally effective and safe for reducing simple spherical myopia.
- Further research on larger ablation zones and smoother contours may enhance outcomes.