Related Experiment Videos
Excimer laser surgery for myopia and myopic astigmatism
O B Hadden1, A T Morris, C P Ring
1Remuera Eye Clinic, Auckland, New Zealand.
Australian and New Zealand Journal of Ophthalmology
|August 1, 1995
Summary
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) effectively corrects myopia and myopic astigmatism, with high rates of unaided vision achieved within a year. PRK offers predictable outcomes, especially for higher myopia, and maintains ocular structural integrity.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Refractive Surgery
- Excimer Laser Surgery
Background:
- Myopia and myopic astigmatism are common refractive errors impacting visual acuity.
- Surgical interventions aim to correct these conditions and reduce dependence on corrective lenses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the long-term efficacy and predictability of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) using the Summit Excimer Laser for myopia and myopic astigmatism.
- To compare the predictability of PRK with radial keratotomy (RK) across different levels of myopia.
Main Methods:
- A cohort of 1333 eyes with myopia or myopic astigmatism underwent PRK with the Summit Excimer Laser.
- Follow-up periods extended to six months or longer, with 607 eyes followed for one year.
- Astigmatic keratotomy was performed concurrently or prior to PRK in 28% of cases.
Main Results:
- At one year, unaided visual acuity of 6/6 or better was achieved by 85.6% (≤3D), 72.1% (-3.25 to -6D), and 49.6% (>-6.25D).
- PRK demonstrated higher predictability than RK for myopia exceeding 6 diopters.
- The procedure resulted in structurally sound eyes without diurnal focusing variations.
Conclusions:
- Photorefractive keratectomy is a safe and effective treatment for myopia and myopic astigmatism.
- PRK offers predictable visual outcomes, particularly for higher degrees of myopia, and preserves ocular integrity.