Visual acuity changes post LASIK in patients with previous radial keratotomy

Abstract

LASIK surgery has been recommended like a solution for the myopic hypocorrection or the change towards hyperopia experienced by the subjects operated previously by Radial keratotomy (RK). <em><strong>Objective:</strong></em> Determinate visual acuity changes post LASIK in patients with previous Radial Keratotomy. Materials and <em><strong>Methods:</strong></em> It was made a review of clinical cases of RK whom were operated with LASIK from October of 2005 to September of 2008, of which 28 eyes were selected (23 patients) who followed inclusion-exclusion criteria, but only 15 eyes assisted to the last control at 6 month. <em><strong>Results:</strong></em> Undercorrected visual acuity pre LASIK 0.65 (20/90) ±0.41, at 6th month (UCVA 6th) was 0.43 (20/50-1) ±0.32; spheric equivalent 6th month (SE 6th) -0.08 ±1.72; Astigmatism -1.58 ±1,14; Root Means Square Higher Order Corneal (RMSHOK) 1.86 ±1,11. VA improved at first month (0.29 p = 0.001 {20/90 a 20/50+2}) and the astigmatism pre and first month (1.10 D; p = 0.000), there was no difference clinically between pre LASIK and 6th month (0.22 LogMAR), but statistically VA changed (p= 0.348). Another variables didn´t show significance difference. <em><strong>Conclusion:</strong></em> Visual Acuity change in two levels, because astigmatism rise or decrease, however patients must be notice about the achievements that they can get after LASIK surgery.