Clinical Outcomes of Single-Step Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy for the Correction of Myopia and Myopic Astigmatism

Abstract

Purpose. To evaluate the dynamics of functional and refractive outcomes, as well as the safety, efficacy, and predictability of transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TransPRK) for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism using the SCHWIND Amaris 1050RS laser platform at 1, 3, and 12 months postoperatively. Materials and Methods. A retrospective study included 186 patients (365 eyes) with a mean age of 29.1 ± 7.75 years and varying degrees of myopia (mean -4.92 ± 2.12 D), with and without myopic astigmatism. All patients underwent single-step TransPRK. Comprehensive ophthalmic examinations were performed preoperatively and postoperatively, including assessment of uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), and refraction (sphere, cylinder, spherical equivalent), as well as evaluation of efficacy, safety, and predictability. Follow-up examinations were conducted at 1, 3, and 12 months. Statistical analysis was performed using nonparametric methods. Results. A statistically significant improvement in UDVA and CDVA was observed at all follow-up points compared to preoperative values. At 12 months, UDVA of 1.0 was achieved in 100 % of eyes, and 1.2 in 61 % of eyes. Efficacy and safety indices demonstrated positive dynamics, with no loss of CDVA lines observed in any patient by the end of the follow-up period. High predictability of refractive outcomes was confirmed, with 94 % of eyes within ±0.50 D of the target spherical equivalent at 12 months, and 100 % within ±1.00 D. Astigmatism correction was also highly effective, with a mean residual cylinder of 0.00 D at 12 months postoperatively. Conclusions. TransPRK using the SCHWIND Amaris 1050RS platform is an effective, safe, and highly predictable method for the correction of myopia and myopic astigmatism. By 12 months, excellent functional and precise refractive outcomes are achieved. Optimal results require thorough preoperative evaluation under standardized conditions, careful surgical planning, and adherence to postoperative management protocols. In the studied cohort, no adjustment of manufacturer-provided nomograms was required to achieve the planned refractive outcomes.