193 nm Excimer Laser Phototherapeutic Keratectomy for Recurrent Corneal Erosions

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) in treating recurrent corneal epithelial erosions. Study Design: Eyes treated with excimer laser PTK were followed up for a mean period of 8.5 months (range: 2–16 months). Setting: The Laser Unit of the Mater Private Hospital, Dublin, Republic of Ireland. Patients: Fifteen eyes of 14 patients with recurrent corneal erosion, resistant to conventional therapy, were treated by excimer laser PTK. All had been treated unsuccessfully with topical lubricants, 2 eyes had epithelial depridement and 2 had anterior stromal punctures. Main Outcome Measures: Recurrence of signs or symptoms, sub-epithelial haze, visual acuity and change in spectacle correction. Results: While 2 patients complained of transient, recurrent, mild foreign body sensation, the remaining 12 were asymptomatic. Microscopic examination showed no signs of recurrence in all the eyes treated. Trace of haze (grade 0.5) was noticed in the 1st 4 weeks and disappeared completely in all the cases. No change in visual acuity or spectacle correction was noted. Conclusions: Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy is a valuable tool in treating resistant recurrent erosions.