Transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy versus LASIK in correction of mild and moderate myopia

Abstract

PurposeThe aim of this study was to compare both transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (trans-PRK) and LASIK in correction of mild and moderate myopia in terms of effectiveness, visual recovery, and safety.Materials and methodsThis was a prospective case - control series. Group I included 30 myopic eyes (16 patients) with spherical equivalent -1.00 to -6.00 D that were subjected to trans-PRK using a Schwind Amaris 500E excimer laser, with a trans-PRK platform. A case-adjusted group II (control group) included 30 myopic eyes (18 patients) with spherical equivalent -1.00 to -6.00 D that were subjected to LASIK using a Schwind Amaris 500E excimer laser, with a LASIK platform. Uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) was measured on the first day, first week, 1 month, and at 6 months, together with manifest refraction. Postoperative pain was assessed using a visual analog scale. The occurrence of complications was documented.ResultsPatients in group I showed slower visual recovery, with a mean of UCVA 0.34 ± 0.19 on the first postoperative day compared with group II (0.76 ± 0.42). However, both groups achieved a mean UCVA of 1.00 by the end of the sixth month. Manifest refraction was comparable in both groups, with a mean of −0.60 ± 1.07 D in group I and −0.15 ± 0.06 D in group II, by the end of the study. Pain was significant in group I, with an average score of 3.2 ± 1.09 in the first day decreasing to zero by the end of the first week in comparison with group II with no pain in the first day until the end of the first week. No complications were recorded in either of the two groups during the study period.ConclusionTrans-PRK may offer a safe and effective alternative to LASIK in the treatment of mild and moderate myopia, especially in cases of thin cornea.