LASIK with the optimized aspheric transition zone and cross-cylinder technique for the treatment of astigmatism from 1.00 to 4.25 diopters.

PURPOSE: The predictability and safety of LASIK with the optimized aspheric transition zone (OATz) and cross-cylinder technique were evaluated for the surgical correction of myopia with 1.00 to 4.25 diopters (D) of astigmatism.

METHODS

In this prospective study, 74 eyes of 48 consecutive LASIK patients with astigmatism ranging from 1.00 to 4.25 D were evaluated. All eyes underwent laser ablation with profile 7 of the OATz algorithm with the NIDEK CXIII excimer laser platform. Refractive outcomes, visual acuity, and patient satisfaction were assessed based on 6-month postoperative data.

RESULTS

Preoperative manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) was -2.10+/-1.19 D (range: -0.50 to -5.75 D) and mean cylinder was -1.94+/-0.89 D (range: -1.00 to -4.25 D). At 6 months postoperatively, the mean MRSE for all eyes was 0.01+/-0.37 D (range: -0.75 to +1.00 D). Postoperatively, 78.3% (58/74) of eyes achieved uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/20 or better, and 97.3% (72/74) of eyes achieved UCVA of 20/40 or better. Regarding predictability, 94.6% (70/74) of eyes were within +/-0.50 D of intended MRSE and 98.6% (73/74) of eyes were within +/-1.00 D of intended MRSE. Four (5.3%) eyes lost two lines of best spectacle-corrected visual acuity at 6 months. Stability was reached between 1 and 3 months and verified at 6 months postoperatively.

CONCLUSIONS

LASIK with OATz and the cross-cylinder technique is safe and predictable for the treatment of patients with astigmatism up to 4.25 D.