Comparison of Laser Epithelial Keratomileusis Versus Epipolis-Laser in Situ Keratomileusis for Moderate to High Myopia

Purpose: To compare the clinical visual results and complications of laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) and epipolis laser in situ keratomileusis (Epi-LASIK). Methods: A retrospective analysis of a case series of eyes treated with LASEK or Epi-LASIK with a follow-up of six months was performed. Twenty-two eyes were treated with LASEK, and 20 eyes were treated using Epi-LASIK. The main outcome measures were uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), and manifest refraction at one week, one month, three months, and six months after refractive surgery, and the presence of any complications. Results: There was no significant difference of UCVA and mean postoperative spherical equivalent (SE) between the eyes treated with LASEK or Epi-LASIK at one week, three months, and six months. However at one month there was significant difference of UCVA. Additionally, in a comparison between moderate and serve myopia, there was no significant difference of UCVA and mean postoperative spherical equivalent (SE) between groups treated with LASEK or Epi-LASIK at one week, one month, three months, and six months. Seven eyes treated with LASEK and two eyes treated with Epi-LASIK showed persistent epithelial erosion less than one week. Two eyes treated with LASEK exhibited newly-developed corneal opacity, which persisted-through the last visit. Conclusions: Epi-LASIK showed clinical visual results and complications comparable to LASEK and showed better epithelial healing.