Refractive outcomes of laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism using a 213 nm wavelength solid-state laser.

PURPOSE: To study the visual and refractive outcomes after laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy (LASEK) performed with a 213 nm solid-state laser for a broad range of refractive errors. SETTING: Private practice, Jersey, United Kingdom. DESIGN: Case series. METHODS: The LASEK was performed using a Pulzar Z1 213 nm solid-state laser. Manifest refraction and uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities were measured preoperatively and 2 and 6 months postoperatively. Accuracy, safety, efficacy, and stability were assessed at 6 months. RESULTS: The study enrolled 245 eyes (134 patients). The preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) refractive errors ranged from -9.50 to +6.50 diopters (D); 24 eyes had more than 2.50 D of astigmatism. At 6 months, 60.4% of eyes were within ±0.25 D of the intended SE, 89.4% were within ±0.50 D, and 97.9% were within ±1.00 D. No eye lost 2 or more lines of CDVA; 95.5% of eyes were unchanged or gained 1 line. The mean cylinder power decreased from -0.98 ± 1.17 D to -0.14 ± 0.28 DC at 6 months. The mean SE was unchanged over the follow-up period; -0.01 ± 0.57 D and -0.01 ± 0.55 D at 2 months and 6 months, respectively. CONCLUSION: Laser-assisted subepithelial keratectomy performed using the 213 nm wavelength solid-state laser was safe, accurate, and effective for the treatment of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.