Laser in situ keratomileusis with flying spot excimer laser

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the use of laser in situ keratomileusis with flying spot excimer laser for myopia. Patients and Methods: A prospective study of all patients who had laser in situ keratomileusis at the excimer laser clinic from January to February 2002. Preoperative evaluation including slit lamp examination, indirect ophthalmoscopy, manifest and cycloplegic refraction, corneal topography, and corneal thickness. All procedures were performed using the Hansatome microkeratome and Meditec MEL 70 G Scan flying spot excimer laser. Postoperative follow-up included visual acuity and manifest refraction at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months. Results: 116 eyes of 58 patients were enrolled in this study. Mean preoperative refractive error (spherical equivalent) was -5.05 ± 1.89 diopters (range, -1.50 to -12.00 diopters). At 3 months, mean refractive error (spherical equivalent) was -0.28 ± 0.45 diopters (range, +0.75 to -1.25 diopters) and 92.73% were within ± 1.00 diopter of refraction (spherical equivalent). Uncorrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better was achieved in 91.67% of patients and 33.33% achieved 20/20 or better. One Snellen line was gained in 25.42% of patients whereas 8.47% lost 1 Snellen line. Conclusion: Laser in situ keratomileusis using flying spot excimer laser is safe and effective for the treatment of myopia.