Changes in Corneal Biomechanical Properties After Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction and Photorefractive Keratectomy, Using a Noncontact Tonometer

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate and compare early corneal biomechanical changes after small-incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Methods:

The study comprised 74 patients eligible for refractive surgery, equally allocated to PRK (37 patients) and SMILE (37 patients). Corneal biomechanical properties were recorded and compared between the 2 groups at preoperatively and 3 months after surgery using a dynamic ultra-high-speed Scheimpflug camera equipped with a noncontact tonometer.

Results:

Both procedures significantly affected corneal biomechanical properties at 3 months after surgery. Patients in the PRK group showed significantly better results for deformation amplitude ratio (DA ratio) (P = 0.03), maximum inverse radius (InvRadMax) (P = 0.02), and A2 time (P = 0.03). The mean changes in DA ratio, HC radius, InvRadMax, and Ambrosio relational thickness were significantly higher in the SMILE group in comparison with those of the PRK group (all, P

Source: Cornea - July 1, 2022 Category: Opthalmology Tags: Basic Investigation Source Type: research