First clinical results of epithelial laser in situ keratomileusis with a 1000 Hz excimer laser.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the safety, stability, and efficacy of the first clinical cases of epithelial laser in situ keratomileusis (epi-LASIK) performed using a 1000 Hz excimer laser system.

SETTING

Klinikum Rechts der Isar, Munich, Germany.

METHODS

The epi-LASIK procedure was performed using an EpiLift microkeratome and a WaveLight Concept System 1000 laser. Preoperatively and 1, 3, and 6 months postoperatively, a complete ophthalmic examination was performed. The examination included objective and subjective refraction, uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuities, and topography.

RESULTS

The study comprised 30 eyes of 17 patients. The mean spherical equivalent was -4.36 diopters (D) +/-1.77 (SD) preoperatively, 0.07 +/- 0.38 D 1 month postoperatively, -0.06 D +/- 0.25 D at 3 months, and -0.05 +/- 0.24 D at 6 months. Six months postoperatively, 90% of patients were within +/-0.50 D of the intended correction and all were within +/-1.00 D. At 3 months, 25 eyes had a clear cornea and 5 eyes had trace haze.

CONCLUSIONS

In this pilot series, the use of the 1000 Hz excimer laser did not lead to the clinical side effects that are potentially associated with the use of a high repetition rate. The safety, stability, and efficacy of the laser were high although no adjustments to the nomogram were made.