Surgically induced astigmatism after photorefractive keratectomy and laser in situ keratomileusis

Abstract

Conclusions: Induced astigmatism was generally less and more random in axis in LASIK than in PRK; a general trend for induced with-the-rule astigmatism in PRK. was not seen in LASIK. Hypothetically, the lamellar corneal flap in LASIK may counteract the tendency toward steepening at 90 degrees seen in PRK by retracting toward the hinge, by masking underlying induced astigmatism in, the ablation zone, or by its mitigating influence on postoperative corneal healing.