[Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy in myopia and astigmatism--1 year experience]

The authors evaluate the results of photorefractive keratectomy by means of an excimer laser myopia and astigmatism in 343 eyes with a minimal follow-up period of 9 months. The value of the preoperative refractive error expressed in spherical equivalents was -1,75 to -18,5 d. In astigmatism the maximal value was -5 cyl. d. The group was divided into four sub-groups: A) -1,75 to -3,0 d., B) -3,25 to -6,0 d., C) -6,25 to -10,0 d., D) more than -10,25 d. The spherical equivalent of the refractive error 9 month after operation was -0,28 d. in group A, -0,37 d. in group B, -0,67 d. in group C and -1,82 d. in group D. Uncorrected vision, 6/12 or better, 9 mons after operation was recorded in group A in 98,1% patients, group B 95,6% group C 91,2% and in group D in 72,5% patients. The authors proved a high effectiveness, safety predictability and stability of photorefractive keratectomy by means of an excimer laser in myopia up to -10 d. Photorefractive keratectomy is a promising method which extends the possibilities of correcting myopia and astigmatism in sufficiently positively motivated and indicated patients.