Results of radial and astigmatic keratotomy by beginning refractive surgeons.

Abstract

There is little information available on the results of radial and astigmatic keratotomy surgery that is performed by beginning refractive surgeons. A retrospective review of all refractive keratotomies performed by Corneal Fellows in the University of California, Los Angeles, Department of Ophthalmology between October 1985 and October 1991 was performed. Data from all eyes with at least 3 months of follow-up were analyzed. Visual acuity, refractive error, and complication rates were compared with published case series. The mean preoperative spherical equivalent for the 79 eyes analyzed was -3.97 diopters (D) (range, -0.75 to -8.50 D). The mean postoperative spherical equivalent was -0.44 D (range, +1.50 to -3.88 D). The postoperative spherical equivalent was within 1.00 D of emmetropia in 85% of eyes, and uncorrected visual acuity was 20/40 or better in 94% of eyes. There were no vision-threatening complications. No patient lost more than one line of best-corrected visual acuity. Radial and astigmatic keratotomies that are performed by beginning refractive surgeons in a supervised setting can be safe and effective procedures with results comparable with those obtained by experienced refractive surgeons.