Laser in situ keratomileusis for the reduction of myopia: an evaluation of clinical results.
BACKGROUND
Laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) combines a 30-year-old established lamellar keratectomy procedure with the precision of the photoablating excimer laser. This procedure is used to reduce moderate myopia and astigmatism.


METHODS
LASIK was performed on 130 eyes and the visual outcome was evaluated.


RESULTS
A total of 63 male eyes and 67 female eyes (mean age, 36 years: range, 19 to 57 years) were evaluated, for a total of 130 eyes. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent was -7.450 (range, -3.12 to -13.87 D). The mean preoperative cylinder was -1.15 DC (range, plano to -4.50 DC). For 130 eyes, after 1 month the mean postoperative spherical equivalent was -0.53 D (range, +2.00 to -4.62 D), and the mean postoperative cylinder was -0.33 DC (range, plano to -2.75 DC). For 82 eyes, after 3 months the mean postoperative spherical equivalent was -0.83 D (range, +1.00 to -4.67 D), and the mean postoperative cylinder was -0.41 DC (range, plano to -2.00 DC). For 49 eyes, after 6 months the mean postoperative spherical equivalent was -0.84 D (range, +1.00 to -8.25 D), and the mean postoperative cylinder was -0.43 DC (range, plano to -1.75 DC). For 20 eyes, the mean postoperative spherical equivalent after 12 months was -0.72 D (range, +0.50 to -2.50 D), and the mean postoperative cylinder was -0.53 DC (range, plano to -2.50 DC).


CONCLUSIONS
LASIK appears to be an effective treatment for the reduction of moderate-to-high myopia.
Augustine
J M
JM
Cleveland Eye Clinic, Ohio 44115, USA.
Chester
T M
TM
D000328:Adult; D003315:Cornea / Q000601:surgery*; D016039:Corneal Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods*; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D053685:Laser Therapy; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009216:Myopia / Q000601:surgery*; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D011446:Prospective Studies; D012029:Refraction, Ocular; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity