Visual Outcome and Regression Post PRK in High Myopia
TL;DR
Photorefractive keratectomy PRK provides a substantial improvement in refractive error, visual acuity, functional visual performance, and patient satisfaction with moderate to severe myopia.
Abstract
Background: Myopia, particularly moderate to severe myopia, is an important cause of visual impairment and may significantly affect daily activities and quality of life. Photorefractive keratectomy PRK is an established corneal refractive procedure for reducing refractive error and dependence on corrective lenses. This study evaluates visual, refractive, functional, and patient-reported outcomes of PRK in patients with myopia. Methods: This study includes patients with myopia who underwent PRK and were followed for 2 years. Preoperative and postoperative assessments included uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), spherical equivalent (SE), keratometric parameters, functional interference with daily activities, and patient satisfaction. Statistical analysis was performed using appropriate comparative tests with a statistical significance level of 0.05. Results: A total of 165 patients were included in the study, with an equal distribution of male and female most participants were aged 20-30 years. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent was -7.42; mean preoperative UCVA was improved from 0.05 to 0,82 at 1 month, 0.93 at 6 months, and 0.91 at 2 years. Mean SE was improved to -0.15 at 1 month and remained -0.69 at 2 years, representing a significant long-term improvement. A mean myopic regression of 0.54 occurred between 1 month and 2 years, with clinically significant regression of 0.54% of eyes. Functional difficulty was markedly reduced after surgery, and 93.0% of patients strongly recommended PRK. Conclusion: PRK provides a substantial improvement in refractive error, visual acuity, functional visual performance, and patient satisfaction with moderate to severe myopia.