Laser in situ keratomileusis for myopia and compound myopic astigmatism using the technolas 217 scanning-spot laser

Abstract

Purpose To evaluate the safety, efficacy, predictability, and visual results of laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) using the Bausch & Lomb Technolas® 217 scanning-spot laser for the treatment of myopia and compound myopic astigmatism. Setting Stanford Eye Laser Center, Stanford, California, USA. Methods In a prospective study, 110 eyes of 58 patients with a mean spherical equivalent (SE) of −4.87 diopters (D) ± 2.5 (SD) (range –1.0 to –11.4 D) had LASIK for myopia and compound myopic astigmatism using the Technolas 217 scanning-spot laser. The primary outcome variables included preoperative and postoperative best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), achieved versus attempted correction, vector analysis of astigmatism, and complications. Results One hundred ten eyes were available for analysis at 3 months. The mean SE refraction was reduced 95% (mean −0.23 ± 0.4 D), and astigmatism was reduced 70% (mean 0.28 ± 0.3 D). One day postoperatively, 100% of eyes had a UCVA of 20/40 or better, 96% had 20/25 or better, 77% had 20/20 or better, and 39% had 20/15 or better. At the 3-month examination, 100% of eyes had a UCVA of 20/40 or better, 95% had 20/25 or better, 83% had 20/20 or better, and 48% had 20/15 or better. Ninety percent of eyes were within ±0.5 D of emmetropia. No eye lost 2 or more lines of BSCVA. Conclusions The Technolas 217 scanning-spot laser produced excellent postoperative UCVA and BSCVA. It was predictable, safe, and effective for the treatment of myopia and compound myopic astigmatism. Long-term follow-up is needed to assess the stability of the procedure.