Visual and keratometric outcomes in eyes undergoing small incision lenticule extraction for compound myopic astigmatism

Abstract

Context The use of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for compound myopic astigmatism has been subject to experimentation in the recent years. Furthermore, examination of corneal alterations has revealed conflicting conclusions, which could be attributable to demographic variation. Aims The aim of this study was to measure visual and keratometric efficacy of SMILE and correlate spherical equivalent (SE) decrements to keratometric alterations. Settings and design This was a prospective nonrandomized study. Thirty eyes of 15 patients were included in the study. Preoperative assessment included oculus Pentacam analysis. Patients were followed-up for up to 3 months, after which tomography was repeated. Statistical analysis used Descriptive statistics, t test, and linear regression analysis were carried out. Results There was a statistically significant improvement in postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity and SE and a statistically significant change in Q value (P Conclusion SMILE is a safe and effective technique to correct cases with myopic astigmatism with an SE of up to −10 D, and a predictable positive correlation could be established between decrements in SE and decrements in anterior corneal steepening.