Prediction of Best-Corrected Visual Acuity With Swept-Source Optical Coherence Tomography Parameters in Keratoconus.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to predict the best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) based on swept-source optical coherence tomography (SS-OCT) parameters in eyes with keratoconus.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 135 eyes of 135 patients with keratoconus (mean age: 31.9 ± 12.4 years). The average keratometry value and BCVA (logarithm of the minimal angle of resolution [Snellen]) were 48.68 ± 5.44 diopter and 0.20 ± 0.36 (20/25), respectively. Eleven parameters were calculated using SS-OCT. Apart from the corneal height and elevation, all the other parameters were calculated from both anterior and posterior corneal OCT data. The patients were divided into 2 groups, 1 for creating the prediction equation (prediction group, 86 eyes) and another for verifying the equation (verification group, 49 eyes). In the former, individual correlations between the BCVA and SS-OCT parameters were analyzed. A stepwise multiple regression analysis was performed with the BCVA as a dependent variable and SS-OCT parameters as independent variables. After its creation, the accuracy of the prediction equation was verified in the verification group.

RESULTS

All the parameters, except for age and total corneal cylinder, showed statistically significant correlations with BCVA (P < 0.0001). Using the stepwise multiple regression analysis, we selected 2 explanatory variables: root mean square of anterior corneal elevation (standardized regression coefficient: 1.221; P < 0.0001) and total coma aberration (standardized regression coefficient: -0.575; P = 0.001; adjusted R = 0.546). The prediction was correct in 84.6% of the eyes within ±1 line of Snellen BCVA.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the equation we derived from SS-OCT parameters is a promising method to predict visual function in patients with keratoconus.