Laser in Situ Keratomileusis for Anisometropia in Children
Purpose
To evaluate the visual and refractive results of LASIK in pediatric patients with anisometropia and amblyopia and to assess the predictability, safety and efficacy of the procedure.
Methods
This prospective, non-randomized study included 37eyes of 18 children with anisometropia in whom conventional therapy had failed . Detailed pre-operative evaluation like any routine LASIK was done and an informed consent taken. All surgeries were done by the same surgeon under topical anesthesia. Routine post operative medication was prescribed & the patient was evaluated for the change in refractive error & the BCVA at regular intervals. Spectacle correction along with amblyopia therapy was instituted immediately. Statistical analysis was done using paired t test.
Results
Thirty-seven eyes of 18 children with the mean age of 11.65+/- 2.07years were included. Results showed a significant reduction in their refractive error in the first post-operative day & this was maintained throughout the rest of the post-operative period(p<0.01) showing that the procedure was highly effective. There was no significant difference in the pre-operative BCVA with the immediately postoperative BCVA at 1 week but there was significant improvement in the BCVA at 3 months(p<0.05) and beyond showing that the procedure was effective but could take 3 months to appreciate& the results were stable even beyond 3 months (p<0.05).
Conclusion
LASIK was safe, effective and predictable for the correction of anisometropia. Better compliance of spectacles and good chance for reversal of refractive amblyopia was noticed. Results were appreciated within 3 months with no significant regression in the post-operative period. No significant complications were also noticed.