title: [Reduction of astigmatism by arcuate incisions using the femtosecond laser after corneal transplantation].
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  We examined the effectiveness of arcuate incisions by femtosecond laser treatment for high astigmatism in corneal transplants.
  
  
  BACKGROUND
  High astigmatism is a well known complication after corneal transplantation and is difficult to treat. At present, there are many surgical procedures for the correction of high astigmatism after PKP in case of an unsuccessful contact lens therapy.
  
  
  METHODS
  Ten patients with a high postoperative astigmatism underwent arcuate keratotomy with the Femtec laser. We performed two arcuate incisions on each transplant. With the femtosecond laser technology it is possible to perform precise incisions where the depth and length of the arcus can be programmed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The best corrected visual acuity was improved in eight out of ten patients. The visual acuity of two patients did not change. The average corneal astigmatism was reduced by three dioptres. The average refractive astigmatism was reduced by four dioptres.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Arcuate incisions with the femtosecond laser on patients with high astigmatism subsequent to corneal transplantation are an effective and safe treatment.
authors.affiliation: Universitätsklinik und Poliklinik für Augenheilkunde, Martin-Luther-Universität. laszlo.kiraly@medizin.uni-halle.de
authors.forename: L
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Kiraly
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Herrmann
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Amm
authors.forename: G
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Duncker
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001251:Astigmatism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D048988:Corneal Surgery, Laser / Q000379:methods*; D016039:Corneal Transplantation / Q000009:adverse effects*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D016896:Treatment Outcome