Comparison of corneal sensitivity and tear function following Epi-LASIK or laser in situ keratomileusis for myopia.

Abstract

To compare the effect of Epi-LASIK or Laser In Situ Keratomileusis (LASIK) on corneal sensitivity and tear function. Prospective, non-randomized comparative clinical trial. Seventy-nine eyes (Group A) underwent Epi-LASIK and 61 eyes underwent LASIK (Group B) for the treatment of myopia. Matching parameters between the groups were age and attempted correction. Corneal sensitivity, tear break-up time (BUT), and Schirmer test II were evaluated before and at one, three, and six months after the procedure. Corneal sensitivity and BUT were decreased at one month in Group A (P < .001) to be restored by the third month (P = .71 and P = .58, respectively). In Group B, corneal sensitivity and BUT were reduced postoperatively (P < .001). There was a significant difference in corneal sensitivity between the two groups at all postoperative intervals. Schirmer test II was not significantly decreased postoperatively in Group A. In Group B, it was decreased at one and three months and restored by the sixth month. Epi-LASIK-treated eyes had faster rehabilitation of corneal sensitivity and tear function than LASIK-treated eyes.