Glare sensitivity in simulated radial keratotomy.

Models for 8-, 16-, and 32-slit radial keratotomies with both different-sized clear central areas and different incisional scar widths have been produced. Five normal subjects who looked through a series of these models have had their glare sensitivity determined using variable contrast threshold targets surrounded by a constant glare source. Results show that increased glare sensitivity is present with small (less than 3 mm), clear central areas and wide (greater than or equal to 0.3 mm) incisional scars. The study suggests that finer scars, larger clear central areas, and configurations of eight and 16 slits should produce the least increase in glare sensitivity. These suggestions seem to be supported by studies performed on patients who have undergone radial keratotomy.