LASIK Compared with Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction
Even a small delay in corneal optical recovery after small-incision lenticule extraction might lead to reduced contrast sensitivity and patient-reported visual issues 1 week postoperatively, according to a prospective case series involving 92 eyes of 46 individuals.
Participants were slated for bilateral small-incision lenticule extraction (n=46) or LASIK (n=46). Investigators looked at standard refraction and visual acuity; contrast sensitivity; aberrometry; and patient-reported quality of vision and overall satisfaction 1, 7, and 30 days postop. Among the results:
- Contrast sensitivity was better in the LASIK group at 1 and 7 days, but not at 30 days.
- There were no differences in visual acuity, efficacy, or safety at any time point.
- Objective scatter index assessed was better after LASIK at 1 day, but statistical significance did not hold up at the other time points.
- Patient-reported quality of vision was significantly better in the LASIK group at 7 days.
- Satisfaction was the same in both groups at all time points.
- A significant link was seen between contrast sensitivity and aberrometry in both groups throughout the study.
Martinez A, Gonzalez C. Early recovery of quality of vision and optical performance after refractive surgery: Small-incision lenticule extraction versus laser in situ keratomileusis. [Published online ahead of print August 2, 2018]. J Cataract Refract Surg. doi: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcrs.2018.06.044.
