[Change in twilight vision and glare sensitivity after PRK]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Vision Science

Context:

• Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) can alter corneal morphology, potentially impacting visual acuity and contrast sensitivity.
• Assessing the functional visual outcomes of PRK, particularly concerning driving ability, is crucial for patient safety.

Purpose:

• To investigate the influence of PRK on contrast sensitivity, both with and without glare.
• To evaluate the subsequent effect of these changes on patients' self-assessed driving ability.

Summary:

• A study involving 114 patients after PRK assessed driving ability via questionnaire and contrast sensitivity using a nyctometer in 66 eyes.
• Post-PRK, 77% (with glare) and 53% (without glare) of patients failed driving criteria two weeks post-op.
• While some improvement occurred within a year, contrast sensitivity remained reduced compared to pre-PRK levels in many patients.

Impact:

• PRK can lead to significant, persistent reductions in contrast sensitivity, impacting driving safety.
• A substantial percentage of patients, even pre-PRK, did not meet driving criteria for contrast sensitivity.
• Informed consent regarding potential driving impairment after PRK is essential for all patients.