Laser in situ keratomileusis after photorefractive keratectomy for myopic regression.

PURPOSE

To assess the efficacy and safety of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) for regression after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

SETTING

Eye Research Center, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.

METHODS

Laser in situ keratomileusis to treat residual myopia ranging from 1.50 to 12.50 diopters (D) (mean 5.96 D +/- 3.06 [SD]) was performed in 45 eyes of 25 patients. Cylindrical corrections were done in 7 eyes (15.6%) and spherical ablations, in 38 (84.4%). The mean interval between primary PRK and LASIK retreatment was 18.50 +/- 8.12 months. The procedure was performed under a hinged corneal flap using the Chiron Automated Corneal Shaper and Chiron Keracor 116 excimer laser.

RESULTS

Six months after LASIK retreatment, mean spherical equivalent refraction was -0.67 +/- 0.77 D. Thirty-six eyes (80%) were within +/- 1.00 D of emmetropia. Uncorrected visual acuity was 20/40 or more in 31 eyes (68.9%); 2 eyes (4%) lost 2 lines of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity. There was no statistically significant difference in corneal haze before and after LASIK.

CONCLUSION

Laser in situ keratomileusis was safe and effective for treating residual myopia after excimer laser PRK.