Visual Results After LASIK: Femtosecond Laser Versus Mechanical Microkeratome
Narrative Responses:
Purpose
To compare flap thickness, flap and stromal bed quality, visual and refractive outcomes and patient satisfaction between LASIK procedures using either MORIA one use-plus SBK mechanical microkeratome or Ziemer FEMTO LDV laser.
Methods
Prospective study on 30 patients, divided into two groups, who underwent LASIK procedure with flap created either with Moria SBK one use-plus mechanical microkeratome (90um head) or Ziemer FEMTO LDV laser. Flap thickness and profile evaluation with OCT in two axis, complication rate, surgery time, quality of resection, flap and stromal bed, visual outcome, patients discomfort during the surgery and postoperative dry eye.
Results
Mean flap thickness for SBK was 98±12um for right eye and 97±15 um for left eye. Flap thickness for LDV was 107±10um for right eye and 102±10 um for left eye, all flaps aligned perfectly to corneal bed. There was no difference in discomfort in early postoperative period. Visual acuity was the same in both groups measured at Day1, Week1 and Month1.
Conclusion
Both methods have excellent results in myopic cases. Femtolaser gives better results in hyperopic cases due to wider corneal bed, ablation zone independent on K values & optional hinge position.