[Epi-LASIK, a novel surface photoablation technique].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the results of myopic epi-LASIK treatment.


METHODS
Retrospective study on 55 eyes of 29 patients having undergone epi-LASIK with the Gebauer epikeratome and the Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser. The eyes were sorted into four groups depending on the degree of myopic spherical equivalence. Postoperative pain was assessed on a visual analog scale and haze was graded clinically on a scale from 0 to 5.


RESULTS
The mean maximal postoperative pain during the first 24 h was graded 2.65. It was minor or absent in 41.5% of eyes. Haze was noted in 49.1% of eyes at month 3. It never exceeded 2.


CONCLUSIONS
Epi-LASIK is more reproducible than LASEK. However, like LASEK, it does not prevent postoperative pain. Haze was also observed, although it was less frequent and intense than with photorefractive keratectomy, according to the literature.


CONCLUSIONS
Randomized comparative double-blind studies are needed to prove that epi-LASIK is more effective and safer than the other surface laser photoablation procedures.
Hoang-Xuan
T
T
Fondation Ophtalmologique A. de Rothschild, Paris. hoangxuant@aol.com
Arnaud
D
D
Souissi
K
K
Cornu
S
S
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D004311:Double-Blind Method; D006801:Humans; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000379:methods*; D009216:Myopia / Q000145:classification / Q000601:surgery*; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012449:Safety