LASIK for myopia of -9.00 to -17.00 D with the VISX STAR S2: 2- to 5-year follow-up.
To evaluate long-term results of LASIK in the correction of high myopia.



Preoperative and early postoperative data, including uncorrected and best spectacle-corrected visual acuity and refraction, were collected retrospectively from 77 eyes of 47 patients who underwent LASIK for myopia of at least -9.00 diopters (D) performed with the VISX STAR S2 excimer laser in our hospital from 1999 to 2003. An additional examination with a satisfaction query was performed 2 to 5 years postoperatively.



After 2- to 5-year follow-up, 40% of eyes has a spherical equivalent refraction within 1.00 D of the original intended refraction, 70% within 2.00 D, and 91% within 3.00 D. Only one eye lost two Snellen lines of visual acuity, whereas three eyes gained two lines and the remainder had no significant change. Regression was mild but significant in the long-term, with mean spherical equivalent refraction being -1.21 D at 1 month, -1.82 D at 6 months, and -1.95 D at 2 to 5 years. Stability was similar in a subgroup of eyes followed for at least 4 years. Nine eyes had mild postoperative complications, which resolved without permanent consequences. All patients, except one, were very satisfied with the results and would have chosen the surgery again.



With careful patient selection and safety precautions, LASIK is a safe alternative with moderate stability but limited predictability in the treatment of myopia of -9.00 to -17.00 D.
Lindbohm
Nina
N
Helsinki University Eye Hospital, Helsinki, Finland. nina.lindbohm@helsinki.fi
Tuisku
Ilpo S
IS
Tervo
Timo M
TM
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D020731:Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / Q000379:methods*; D054018:Lasers, Excimer / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D047728:Myopia, Degenerative / Q000601:surgery*; D017060:Patient Satisfaction; D011183:Postoperative Complications; D012029:Refraction, Ocular / Q000502:physiology; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014792:Visual Acuity / Q000502:physiology