Visual, refractive, and subjective outcomes after photorefractive keratectomy for myopia of 6 to 10 diopters using the Nidek laser

Abstract

To analyze the results of photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) for myopia of 6.0 to 10.0 diopters (D) using the Nidek laser and compare them with those in other series, including LASIK, and to analyze the subjective aspects of vision. Remuera Eye Clinic, Auckland, New Zealand. One hundred ninety-two eyes of 162 consecutive PRK patients with a 6 month follow-up were studied. All had myopia in the range of 6.0 to 10.0 D by spherical equivalent. Astigmatism of up to 3.5 D was treated by laser simultaneously. At 6 months, uncorrected visual acuity, best spectacle-corrected visual acuity, residual refractive error, and corneal haze were recorded. After the 6 month examination, a questionnaire was sent to all patients. Uncorrected visual acuity of 20/20 was achieved in 59% of eyes and of 20/40 or better in 94%. The accuracy of correction was ±0.5 D of emmetropia in 77% and ±1.0 D in 94%. In 2 eyes (1.0%), corneal haze was assessed as 2+ and 2 Snellen lines of best corrected visual acuity were lost. The questionnaire revealed that 45% of patients had difficulties with night vision. This was better than before surgery in 35% but worse in 31%. Halos were seen around lights by 52%, but these were less than before surgery in 21% and worse in 26%. There was undue sensitivity to glare in 29%, but this was better than before surgery in 19% and worse in 28%. The overall quality of vision was better than before surgery in 60% and worse in 17%. Seventy-seven percent did not need spectacles. Ninety-eight percent said they would have the surgery again. As long as the patients are informed of the limitations of PRK for myopia, the results are acceptable.