Long Term Results of Clear Lens Extraction & LASIK[Laser in situ Keratomileusis] for Correction of High Myopia

Park, Sung Pyo; Choi, Tae Hoon; Lee, Ha Bum

Abstract

This is a retrospective study of two series of eyes that received clear lens extraction[11 eyes] or laser in-situ keratomileusis[LASIK, 15 eyes] for correction of high myopia over -15.0D. The purpose of this study is to compare the 2year clinical results of two procedures. Mean preoperative spherical equivalent was -23.93+/-3.31D in clear lens extraction group and -19.12+/-4.52D in LASIK group. Postoperative uncorrected and best corrected visual acuities were significantly improved in both group[p<0.05], but were not significantly different between two groups[p>0.1]. In clear lens extraction group, the change[0 or more than 1 line increased] of the preoperative uncorrected visual acuity versus the preoperative best corrected visual acuity significantly better than that of LASIK group at 1 month and 2 years p=0.020, p=0.036]. Predictability was significantly higher in clear lens extraction group than that of LASIK group[p=0.0024]. At long term follow-up during 2 years, clear lens extraction shows less myopic regression, more refractive correction effect, and much more predictable than LASIK in high myopia over -15.0D, but longer follow-up study is needed to evaluate its clinical effect. When performing refractive surgery in highly myopic patients, the method of operation should be chosen carefully, considering the age and retinal state.