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Excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy for presbyopia: 24-month follow-up in three eyes
P Vinciguerra1, G M Nizzola, G Bailo
1Biomedical Science Institute of the S.Gerardo Hospital-Monza (MI) Italy.
Background:
For some patients, standard optical correction for presbyopia is not satisfactory. Using a specially designed mask, we developed a procedure for correcting presbyopia with excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
Methods:
A mask consisting of a mobile diaphragm formed by two blunt blades was used to ablate a 10 to 17 microm deep semilunar-shaped zone immediately below the pupillary center, steepening the corneal curvature in that area. Three eyes of three presbyopic patients were treated, aiming at a near addition of +3.00 D. Follow-up time was 24 months.
Results:
After an initial regression of 1.00 D during the first 6 months, the presbyopic correction remained stable for the duration of the follow-up period, enabling uncorrected near vision of J3 in all three eyes. Uncorrected distance visual acuity was not altered. Contrast sensitivity (Regan) was slightly decreased only at the 11% level. Videokeratography confirmed corneal steepening in the ablated area.
Conclusion:
The visual and refractive outcome of excimer laser PRK for presbyopia with the Aesculap-Meditec MEL 60 is promising, especially in view of the 2-year follow-up.