The Impact of Standard Cross-Linking on the Corneal Optical Density-Age Relationship in Keratoconus After Mechanical Stripping of the Epithelium.

Background: To determine if cross-linking (CXL) treatment modifies any pre-existing association between corneal optical density (COD) and age in keratoconus free of corneal scarring. Methods: COD was monitored in two groups (i) before and after standard CXL treatment for keratoconus (de-epithelization with a crescent blade, n = 69 eyes) and (ii) age/gender-matched cases without any signs of keratoconus (n = 24 eyes). Seven different markers of COD were quantified using a 0-100 grey scale, supplied with Pentacam™ software. Results: Mean age (±sd, range) in Group I (19 females and 50 males) was 24.2 years (±7.2, 11-44) and in Group II (9 females and 15 males), it was 24.7 years (±7.6, 17-45). COD over the apex and along the depth of the cornea (y, arbitrary scale units) was associated with age (x, in years) in Group I at preop (y = 0.08x + 13.12, r s = 0.350 and p=0.003), at 12 months postop (y = 0.08x + 15.15, r s = 0.295 and p=0.014) and in Group II, at the start (y = 0.16x + 11.28, r s = 0.474 and p=0.019) and 12 months later (y = 0.24x + 8.63, r s = 0.600 and p=0.002). The change in COD following CXL was significantly associated with the preop value. Conclusion: CXL initially breaks down the pre-existing relationship between COD and age. This is re-established by 12 months postop. The CXL induced change in COD depends on the preop value but not on the patient's age.

Could Automated Objective Measurements Acquired at the Preoperative Stage Estimate the Corrected Distance Visual Acuity after Corneal Cross-Linking in Keratoconus?

INTRODUCTION: Objective markers describing corneal optical density (COD), thinnest corneal thickness (TCT), and anterior (ARC) and posterior (PRC) surface radii over the 3 mm thinnest region of the cornea were investigated to provide a model for estimating corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) after corneal cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconus. METHODS: CDVA, COD, TCT, ARC, and PRC were monitored (using Pentacam™) over 1 year in patients with (1) keratoconus treated with routine CXL (2) relatively stable untreated keratoconus, and (3) age/gender-matched controls. RESULTS: In group 1 (n = 77), the median logMAR CDVA (mode, interquartile range) improved significantly (p < 0.01) from 0.26 (0.22, 0.12-0.65) to 0.07 (0.00, 0.02-0.21). The mean (± standard deviation, 95% confidence interval) COD (in 0-100 grey scale units) in the 0-2 mm central anterior corneal region (0-2 ant), TCT (µm), ARC (mm), and PRC (mm) changed significantly (p < 0.01), from 21.2 (± 3.70, 20.4-22.0), 454 (± 40.0, 446-462), 6.49 (± 0.71, 6.33-6.65), and 4.81 (± 0.65, 4.66-4.96) to 31.5 (± 9.19, 29.5-33.6), 423 (± 49.3, 412-434), 6.78 (± 0.80, 6.60-6.98), and 4.74 (± 0.64, 4.59-4.88), respectively, but remained stable in groups 2 (n = 23) and 3 (n = 24). Significant relationships (p < 0.01) were uncovered between postop CDVA and preop values of COD, TCT, ARC, and PRC. Multilinear regression revealed significant correlations between CDVA at 1 year and preop COD, TCT, ARC, and PRC (r2 = 0.533, r20-2ant = 0.126, r2TCT = 0.321, r2ARC = 0.506, r2PRC = 0.467). Including preop CDVA further enhanced this correlation (r2 = 0.637, r2LogMAR CDVApreop = 0.566). CONCLUSION: CXL improved CDVA, increased COD and ARC, and reduced TCT and PRC. The chance of correctly estimating the CDVA at 1 year after CXL using preoperative markers of COD, TCT, ARC, and PRC is 53%, improving to 64% with the inclusion of preoperative CDVA. Objective measurements taken at the preoperative screening stage may be useful to estimate the likely postoperative CDVA when preoperative CDVA measures are unreliable or unobtainable. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier, NCT06522789.

Stereoacuity and Aniseikonia: Evaluation Before and After Bilateral Implantation of Three Types of Presbyopia-Correcting Intraocular Lenses in Uncomplicated Phacoemulsification with Due Consideration of Interocular Differences in Higher Order Aberrations, Axial Lengths, Refractive Errors, and Acuities.

Purpose: To determine if the changes in stereoacuity and aniseikonia, following bilateral implantation of presbyopia correcting intraocular lenses could be predicted from preoperative measurements of higher order aberrations (HOAs), axial lengths (AL), refractive errors (RE) and corrected visual acuities (CVAs). Patients and Methods: Stereoacuity (Randot tests, @6m & 40cm, in steps of 20 arcsecs") vertical and horizontal aniseikonia (Awaya test @6m, in steps of 1%) with best correction and HOAs (Shack-Hartmann aberrometer) were measured before, 3 and 6 months after uncomplicated bilateral phacoemulsification. Twenty patients (I) underwent a mix-and-match procedure (Tecnis MF, ZKB00 in one eye and ZLB00 in the other), 17 (II) were implanted with a trifocal (AT LISA 839 triMP) and 18 (III) with a one-piece diffractive (Synergy OU) intraocular lens. The resultant aniseikonia (AR) of vertical and horizontal pairs of aniseikonia measurements was calculated using the Pythagorean theorem. Twenty untreated age/gender matched cases were recruited as controls (IV). Results: The key results (p < 0.001) were a) stereoacuity at distance (SAD) and near (SAN) improved, AR reduced in groups I, II & III remaining unchanged in group IV; b) some significant intergroup differences in SAD, SAN & AR were detected at postop; c) at 6 months postop, changes (Δ=pre- minus postoperative value) correlated with preoperative values (x). Linear regression revealed, I ΔSAD=0.66x-57.47 [0.832, ±66.4], ΔSAN=0.96x-34.59 [0.821, ±16.9], ΔAR=0.93AR-2.12 [0.795, ±1.4] II ΔSAD=0.79x-62.91 [0.916, ±38.1], ΔSAN=0.96x-31.49 [0.892, ±8.0], ΔAR=0.91AR-0.91 [0.839, ±1.3] III ΔSAD=0.67x-35.50 [0.991, ±23.7], ΔSAN=0.88x-38.51[0.988, ±10.6], ΔAR=0.86AR-0.96 [0.900, ±1.3]. Figures in parentheses are the corresponding rs and ±limits of agreement between actual and estimated values. Definitive overarching associations connecting interocular differences in HOAs, AL, RE, and CVAs with SAD, SAN and AR were not found. Conclusion: Changes in stereoacuity and aniseikonia can be predicted using preoperative values. ΔSAN can be predicted within ±1, and ΔAR within ±2, scale divisions. In group III ΔSAD can be predicted within ±1, and in group I ±3, scale divisions.

Corneal Surface Elevation and Thickness in Relation to the Fit of Rigid Contact Lenses in Keratoconus and After Corneal Cross-Linking.

Purpose: To determine if factors pertaining to corneal thickness and elevation were linked to the prescribed back optic zone radius and overall diameter in keratoconus (group I), and cross-linked keratoconus (group II), cases successfully fitted with rigid contact lenses. Patients and Methods: A review of cases adapted to contact lens wear (Rose K™) and assessed using Pentacam™ (for corneal anterior surface topography, astigmatism, elevation, and topographic thickness variation) was undertaken to determine the significance of any correlation with comfort, lens usage, grading of keratoconus, corrected distance visual acuity (with glasses and contacts), refractive error, prescribed lens powers, back optic zone radius and overall diameter values were assessed. Results: Chief findings were, comfort was rated highly, lenses were worn for more than 10 hours/day in 75% of cases. RCL corrected distance logMAR acuities (median, mode, inter-quartile ranges) were 0.11, 0.12 (0.08-0.13) and 0.08, 0.08 (0.06-0.11) in groups I and II, respectively. Multiple linear regression revealed significant correlations (p<0.01) between the [A] back optic zone radius, the thinnest value of corneal thickness (x1) and anterior corneal surface elevation (x2). The respective r2 values were 0.471 in group I and 0.512 in group II. [B] overall diameter, x1 and x2. The respective r2 values were 0.282 in group I and 0.505 in group II. Conclusion: RCLs were well-tolerated in both groups. The r2 values imply there is a 50% chance of correctly predicting the suitable back optic zone radius in both groups, a 50% chance of correctly predicting the overall diameter in group II and 28% in group I cases using just x1 and x2. The thinnest value of corneal thickness and anterior corneal surface elevation could be used to quickly select the BOZR and OD during RCL fitting. This has the potential to reduce chair-time, waste and improve efficiency.

A Critical Assessment of Friedenwald's Technique for Estimating the Coefficient of Rigidity of the Cornea.

Purpose: To determine if Friedenwald's technique for estimating the coefficient of corneal rigidity (Ko, units mmHg/µL), could differentiate between the cornea in keratoconus, normal eyes, and after crosslinking (CXL). Methods: Two operators (1 and 2) independently measured Ko in three groups (keratoconus, normal, and post-CXL corneas), and repeated the procedure in some where their care remained unchanged and others after routine CXL (>28 days postop, epi-off treatment, 3.0 mW/cm2, 30 min). The data were subsequently used to quantify interoperator error, test-retest/intersessional reliability for estimation of Ko, the significance of intergroup differences, and the effect of CXL on Ko. Results: The major findings were: (i) Ko values were not normally distributed; (ii) mean (±sd, 95% CI) interoperator error was -0.002 (±0.019, -0.006 to 0.003, n = 95) and the limit of agreement between the operators was ±0.039; (iii) RMS differences in the intersessional estimation of Ko values were 0.011 (operator 1) and 0.012 (operator 2); (iv) intergroup differences in Ko were not significant (p > 0.05); (v) intersessional change in Ko (y) was linearly related to Ko estimated (x) at 1st session (for operator 2 y = 1.187x-0.021, r = 0.755, n = 16, p < 0.01); and (vi) change in Ko (y 1) after CXL was linearly related to Ko (x 1) at preop (for operator 2 y 1 = 0.880x 1-0.016, r = 0.935, n = 20, p < 0.01). Conclusion: Friedenwald's technique for estimating the Ko is prone to substantial interoperator error and intersessional differences. According to the technique, the change in Ko following CXL is on par with the expected intersessional change observed in controls.

Prevalence of keratoconus in refractive surgery practice population in North Macedonia.

PURPOSE: To determine the prevalence of keratoconus (KC) in relation to ethnicity in a group of people who consulted an ophthalmological care institution seeking for refractive surgery in N. Macedonia. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional, interventional retrospective study. Chart reviews were performed for all new patients attending between January 2016 and January 2020 at the Sistina Ophthalmology Hospital in Skopje. All patients were screened; KC diagnosis and classification were based on the corneal topography. Ethnicity and gender classifications were according to patients' self-opinions. RESULTS: A total of 2812 patients charts reviewed. The mean age was 31.71 years (SD ± 9.73), and 1209 (43%) were male. A total of 2050 (72.9%) declared themselves as Macedonians, 649 (23.1%) Albanians, 76 (2.7%) Turks and 37 (1.3%) in other ethnicities. Differences in age between the ethnic groups were statistically significant (x2 = 90.225, p < 0.001). KC was diagnosed in 343 patients (12.2%), while 9 (0.7%) were KC suspects and 6(0.21%) presented pellucid marginal degeneration. KC was more frequent in males (n = 246, 71.7% of total) and skewed toward younger patients. Increasing patients' age decreased the odds of KC diagnosis by 3.7% (95% CI 1.8%-4.4%) per annum. Males were four times more likely to be diagnosed with KC (AOR = 4.01; 95% CI 3.12-5.16). In comparison with Macedonian patients, Turks were more likely to be diagnosed with KC (AOR = 4.09; 95% CI 2.47-6.78). There was no difference between Macedonians and Albanians (p = 0.08). CONCLUSION: The prevalence of KC at a refractive surgery practice in N. Macedonia is much higher compared with general population (6.8/100,000) and similar to the prevalence in Middle East Asia. Nationwide screening programs are needed to diagnose the disease earlier.

Comparison between the change in total corneal astigmatism and actual change in refractive astigmatism in transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (tPRK), laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and femtosecond laser assisted laser in situ keratomileusis (FsLASIK).

PURPOSE: To compare changes in astigmatism by refraction and total corneal astigmatism after tPRK, LASIK and FsLASIK. SETTING: Specialty Eye Hospital Svjetlost, Zagreb, Croatia. DESIGN: Partially masked, semi-randomized, prospective, case-by-case, interventional, clinical study. METHODS: Patients with a stable refraction (-0.75DS to -8.00DS, astigmatism ≤1.00DC) underwent tPRK, LASIK or FsLASIK without complication. Astigmatism was measured at both corneal surfaces over the central 3.2 mm zone (approximately using Pentacam HRTM) preoperatively and 3 months postoperatively. Pentacam and refraction data were subjected to vector analysis to calculate the surgically induced changes in i) total corneal astigmatism (SIATCA) ii) any astigmatism by refraction (SIAR) and the vectorial difference (DV) between SIATCA and SIAR. RESULTS: Reporting key findings (p < .01), there was a significant difference between mean SIATCA and SIAR powers after tPRK (75eyes) but not after LASIK (100eyes) or FsLASIK (100eyes). Mean (±sd,95% CIs) values for DV powers were, tPRK -1.13DC(±0.71, -1.29 to -0.97), LASIK -0.39DC(±0.23,-0.44 to -0.34), FsLASIK -0.55DC(±0.38,-0.62 to -0.47). The differences were significant. For the tPRK and FsLASIK cases, linear regression revealed significant associations between I) SIATCA (x) &DV (z) powers (tPRK z = 1.586x-0.179, r = 0.767, p < .01; FsLASIK z = 0.442x-0.303, r = .484,p < .01), II) sines of SIATCA (x1) &DV (z1) axes (tPRK, z1 = 0.523 × 1 + 0.394, r = .650,p < .01; FsLASIK z1 = 0.460 × 1-0.308, r = .465,p < .01). CONCLUSIONS: tPRK is more prone to unintended changes in astigmatism. The difference between SIATCA & SIAR after tPRK or FsLASIK is mediated by SIATCA. Photoablating deeper regions of the cornea reduces the gap between SIATCA & SIAR.

A critical evaluation of longitudinal changes of astigmatism following implantation of toric implantable collamer lens (TICL): a comparison between treated and untreated cases over 4 years.

PURPOSE: To evaluate residual astigmatism following correction with toric implantable collamer lens (TICL) (group I) over a period of 4 years and compare with the change of astigmatism in spectacle wearers (group II). METHODS: Groups I (86 cases implanted with TICL [EVO + Visian ICL, Staar Surgical, Nidau, Switzeland], preop refractive error [sphere and cylinder] - 22.25 DS to - 1.00 DS and - 5.50 DC to - 1.00 DC) and II (80 cases initial refractive error [sphere and cylinder] - 18.00 DS to 0.00 DS and - 7.00 DC to - 1.00 DC) were reviewed annually. Refractive and tomography data were subjected to vector analysis to determine surgically induced astigmatism (SIA), angle of error [Δθ° = angle of target-induced astigmatism (TIA) - angle of SIA], and ΔC [TIA-SIA powers] and total corneal astigmatism (TCA) in group I and induced change in astigmatism (ICA) in group II. RESULTS: In group I, on all occasions, SIA correlated with TIA (p < 0.05); differences between SIA and TIA means were insignificant and changes in TCA were not correlated with ΔC. Mean (± sd, 95% CI) residual astigmatic powers (RA) in attending group I cases (1-4 years) were - 0.40 DC (0.58, - 0.52 to - 0.28), - 0.40 DC (0.59, - 0.52 to - 0.27), - 0.41 DC (0.58, - 0.54 to - 0.28), and - 0.61 DC (0.74, - 0.82 to - 0.40). In group II, the corresponding ICA powers were - 0.47 DC (0.53, - 0.61 to - 0.32), - 0.49 DC (0.48, - 0.69 to - 0.29), - 0.60 DC (0.40, - 0.76 to - 0.44), and - 0.86 DC (0.71, - 1.19 to - 0.52). Differences between RA and ICA were not significant. Of the group I cases presenting at 1-4 years postop, 23, 18, 16, and 28 had RA powers ≤ - 0.75 DC. Of these 12, 10, 6, and 16 were associated with Δθ° > 5° (ΔC - 0.50 to 0 DC) and 5, 1, 4, and 4 were related to ΔC (Δθ° < 5°). CONCLUSION: The development of astigmatism after TICL implantation is on par with the natural change in astigmatism in untreated cases. In about 50% of TICL cases presenting with astigmatism ≤ - 0.75 DC, the residual astigmatism could be neutralized by realigning the TICL.

The relationship between angle kappa and astigmatism after phacoemulsification with implanting of spherical and aspheric intraocular lens.

PURPOSE: To determine the significance of any association between either change in angle kappa (Κ°) or the rectilinear displacement (L, mm) of the first Purkinje image relative to the pupil center and unexpected changes in astigmatism after phacoemulsification. METHODS: Orbscan II (Bausch and Lomb) measurements were taken at 1, 2, and 3 months after unremarkable phacoemulsification in patients implanted with spherical (group 1, SA60AT, Alcon) or aspheric (group 2, SN60WF, Alcon) nontoric IOLs. The outputs were used to calculate L. Astigmatism, measured by autorefractometry and subjective refraction, was subjected to vector analysis (polar and cartesian formats) to determine the actual change induced over the periods 1-2 and 2-3 months postop. RESULTS: Chief findings were that the mean (n, ±SD, 95%CI) values for L over each period were as follows: Group 1, 0.407 (38, ±0.340, 0.299-0.521), 0.315 (23, ±0.184, 0.335-0.485); Group 2, 0.442 (45, ±0.423, 0.308-0.577), 0.372 (26, ±0.244, 0.335-0.485). Differences between groups were not significant. There was a significant linear relationship between (A) the change in Κ (ΔΚ = value at 1 month-value at 2 months) and Κ at 1 month (x), where ΔΚ =0.668-3.794X (r = 0.812, n = 38, P = <0.001) in group 1 and ΔΚ = 0.263x -1.462 (r = 0.494, n = 45, P = 0.002) in group 2, (B) L and the J45 vector describing the actual change in astigmatism between 1 and 2 months in group 2, where J45 (by autorefractometry) =0.287L-0.160 (r = 0.487, n = 38, P = 0.001) and J45 (by subjective refraction) =0.281L-0.102 (r = 0.490, n = 38, P = 0.002), and (C) J45 and ΔΚ between 2 and 3 months in group 2, where J45 (by subjective refraction) =0.086ΔΚ-0.063 (r = 0.378, n = 26, P = 0.020). CONCLUSION: Changes in the location of the first Purkinje image relative to the pupil center after phacoemulsification contributes to changes in refractive astigmatism. However, the relationship between the induced change in astigmatism resulting from a change in L is not straightforward.

Spotlight on the Corneal Back Surface Astigmatism: A Review.

Recent evidence indicates that the corneal back surface astigmatism (CBSA) contributes to the refractive state of the eye in cataract surgery, especially with the implantation of toric intraocular lenses. But this has been met with some scepticism. A review of key studies performed over the past three decades shows that the mean CBSA power ranges from 0.18(±0.16)D to 1.04(±0.20)D. The clinical assessment of CBSA is problematic. There is poor agreement between the current automated systems for assessment of CBSA and it is assumed that these systems directly measure the CBSA. But CBSA cannot be measured directly in vivo. A historical review of methods used to quantify the curvature of the posterior corneal surface reveals that CBSA estimated by current systems is based on values for corneal front surface astigmatism, corneal refractive index, central corneal thickness, corneal thickness at peripheral locations and the exact distance between the corneal apex and each one of these peripheral locations. Doubts and errors in these values, coupled with the precise details of the algorithm incorporated to estimate CBSA, are the likely sources of the lack of agreement between current systems. These systematic errors cloud the assessment of CBSA. Mean CBSA may be low, but it varies from case to case. There is a clear need for a realistic, practical procedure for clinicians to independently calibrate systems for estimating CBSA. This would help to reduce uncertainty and the discrepancies between instruments designed to measure the same parameter.

Predicted and Measured Changes in Posterior Corneal Astigmatism after Uncomplicated Femtosecond Assisted LASIK (FsLASIK) and Microkeratome LASIK Correction for Myopia and Low Astigmatism.

Purpose: To compare predicted and measured changes in astigmatism at the posterior corneal surface (PCS) after FsLASIK or LASIK.Methods: Astigmatism was measured at both corneal surfaces (PentacamTM) before and 3 months after unremarkable FFsLASIK (roup 1,n = 100) or LLASIK (roup 2,n = 100) for myopia (-7.25DS to -0.75DS) and low astigmatism (≤1.00DC). Photoablation was achieved using Schwind Amaris750STM laser (Aberration Free profile, centered on corneal vertex). Pre-and postop astigmatic data, according to subjective refraction and estimates for the corneal surfaces (over the central 3.2 mm zone), were subjected to vector analysis to calculate surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) by refraction (SIAR), at the anterior (SIAFact) and posterior corneal surfaces (SIABact). The difference vector between SIAR and SIAFact was regarded as the predicted SIA at the PCS (SIABest).Results: Reporting key findings. Mean(±sd,95%CI) SIABest and SIABact powers in group 1 were -0.52DC(±0.35,-0.56 to -0.45) and -0.11DC(±0.08,-0.13 to -0.10) in group 1, -0.35DC(0.20,-0.39 to -0.32) and -0.08DC(0.07,-0.09 to -0.06) in group 2. Differences between SIABest and SIABact were significant for powers but not axes. Significant correlations(p < .01) were revealed between (I) SIAR and SIAFact powers [Group 1, SIAR = 0.370.SIAFact-0.292,r = 0.299. Group 2, SIAR = 0.484.SIAFact-0.394,r = 0.519] but not the axes and (II) ΔC (difference between pre-[x1] and postop measured PCS astigmatic powers) and x1 [Group 1, ΔC = 0.384x1 + 0.119,r = 0.423. Group 2, ΔC = 0.135x1 + 0.047,r = 0.229,p = .022]. There was no correlation between SIABest and SIABact powers or axes.Conclusion: The changes in posterior corneal astigmatic powers according to Pentacam measurements are small and do not account for the deficit between SIAR and SIAFact after FsLASIK or LASIK.

The effect of corneal crosslinking on the rigidity of the cornea estimated using a modified algorithm for the Schiøtz tonometer.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to test a method for estimating corneal rigidity before and after cross-linking (CXL) using a Schiøtz tonometer. Methods: The study was performed in the Kyiv City Clinical Ophthalmological Hospital "Eye Microsurgical Center", Ukraine. This was a prospective, consecutive, randomized, masked, case-by-case, clinical study. Corneal rigidity, indicated by the gradient (G) between lg applied weight and corresponding lg scale reading during Schiøtz tonometry, were obtained by increasing (A-mode) then reducing (D-mode) weights by two operators [A] in keratoconus, post-CXL and control subjects for estimation of (i) interoperator and (ii) intersessional errors, (iii) intergroup differences; [B] before and after CXL. Central corneal thickness CCT was measured by scanning slit pachymetry. ANOVA, t tests, linear regression were the statistical tools used. Results: Average interoperator difference (ΔG) was -0.120 (SD = ±0.294, 95%CI = -0.175 to -0.066). A significant correlation between ΔG and the mean of each pair of G values was found (r = -0.196, n = 112, P = 0.038). Intersessional differences in mean G values were insignificant (P > 0.05). There was a significant correlation between G at first session (X1) and difference between sessions (ΔG) [Operator 1, ΔG = 0.598x1-0.461, r = 0.601, n = 27, P = 0.009]. Significant intergroup differences in G were found (Operator 1, one-way ANOVA, F = 4.489, P = 0.014). The difference (Δ) between the pre-(X2) and post-CXL treatment G values was significantly associated with the pre-CXL treatment value (Operator 1, Δ = 1.970x2-1.622, r = 0.642, n = 18, P = <.001). G values were correlated with CCT in keratoconus and post-CXL. Conclusion: Corneal rigidity (G) estimated using the Schiøtz tonometer can be useful for detecting changes after CXL. However, G values are linked to CCT, can vary from time-to-time and the procedure is operator dependent.

Are changes in visual acuity and astigmatism after corneal cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconus predictable?

PURPOSE: To evaluate changes in corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), ratio of anterior and posterior corneal radii over the thinnest region of the cornea (ARC/PRC), and astigmatism after cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconus. METHODS: Subjective refraction and ARC/PRC (using Pentacam™) were monitored over 1 year in (I) keratoconus treated with routine CXL (n = 53), (II) relatively stable keratoconus (n = 23), and (III) age/gender matched controls (n = 24). RESULTS: CDVA (median, mode, interquartile range) improved significantly in group I, compared with groups II and III (p < 0.05), from 0.45 (0.60, 0.20-0.63) to 0.80 (0.95, 0.60-0.95); change in CDVA was associated with preop CDVA (p < 0.01 at all times postop). ARC/PRC (mean ± sd, 95% CI) changed from 1.362 (± 0.048, 1.347-1.377) to 1.425 (± 0.073, 1.401-1.449). CDVA and ARC/PRC remained stable in II and III. Significant relationships were revealed between logCDVA and ARC/PRC in I and II (at 12 months, I rs = - 0.464, II rs - 0.449) and logCDVA at postop(y), log CDVA at preop(x1), and ARC/PRC at preop(x2) in I (at 12 months, y = 0.356x1 - 1.312x2 + 1.806, r21 = 0.494, r22 = 0.203). Astigmatic power (mean ± sd, 95% CI) improved from - 3.10DC (± 1.52, - 3.55 to - 2.66) to - 2.53DC (± 1.24, - 2.90 to - 2.17) in I, and worsened from - 1.27DC (± 1.32, - 1.81 to - 0.73) to - 1.61DC (± 1.28, - 2.13 to - 1.09) in II. Vector analysis revealed in group I (a) the power of the surgically induced astigmatism (SIA) was linked to astigmatic power at preop and (b) the difference between the axis of astigmatism at preop(ø) and the axis of the SIA was linked to ø. CONCLUSION: CXL improved CDVA, increased the ARC/PRC ratio, and modified the association between CDVA and ARC/PRC. The change in CDVA was linked to preop CDVA and ARC/PRC values. The association between SIA and preop astigmatism implies there is not a simple cause and effect relationship with CXL.

The influence of routine uncomplicated phacoemulsification on the orthogonality of the cornea.

Purpose: The aim of this study was to determine the effect of routine uncomplicated phacoemulsification on the orthogonal distribution of mass within the central optical zone of the cornea. Methods: Astigmatism at both corneal surfaces was evaluated using Orbscan II (Bausch &and Lomb) before and up to 3 months after routine phacoemulsification (one eye/patient). The data were subjected to vector analysis to estimate the pre-and postoperative total astigmatism of the cornea (TCA). Results: Reporting the chief findings in minus cylinder (diopters, DC) over the central 3 mm (A) and 5 mm (B) optical zones. Mean TCA powers (±sd) at pre- and 3-months postop were A) -4.45DC (±2.00) and -5.69DC (±2.69), B) -2.91DC (±2.22) and -2.71DC (±1.60). Change in mean power was significant over 3 mm (P < 0.01, n = 49) but not over 5 mm. Inter-zonal differences were significant (P < 0.01). There was a significant linear relationship between the change in TCA power (y = preoperative-postoperative) and TCA at preoperative stage (x) where, A) y = 0.45x + 3.12 (r = 0.336, n = 49, P = 0.018), B) y = x + 2.65 (r = 0.753, n = 49, P = <0.01). Over the central 3 mm zone only, change (preoperative-postoperative) in axis (°) of TCA (y1) was significantly associated with TCA axis at preoperative stage (x1) where y1 = 1.391x1-0.008x12-0.701 (r = 0.635, n = 49, P < 0.01). Conclusion: Changes in TCA power and axis at 3 months postop, determined using Orbscan II, are indicative of orthogonal alterations in the distribution of corneal tissue. Over the central 3 mm zone, the association between y1 and x1 shows that a change in TCA axis is more profound when preoperative axis is near 90° i.e., against-the-rule.

The relationship between patient age and residual refractive error after uneventful laser in situ keratomileusis for moderate-to-high hyperopia.

PURPOSE: To determine if the manifest sphero-cylindrical residual refractive error, at various time points over a 12-month postop period after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) was associated with patient age at time of surgery. METHODS: Patients with moderate to high hyperopia (3.00-7.00 DS) and astigmatism ⩽2 DC underwent LASIK using Wavelight Allegretto Eye Q (400 Hz). Treatments were centered on corneal vertex, flaps were made with Moria M2 mechanical microkeratome. Pre-and postoperative uncorrected and corrected distant visual acuity, best corrected spherical equivalent (SEQ) were measured. Measurements were taken at 1 week, 1, 3, 6, and 12 months after the surgery. Target refraction was emmetropia. Total of 161 patients were treated. In binocular cases, data from the right eyes were included for analysis. In this article, we report on refraction data only. Raw data were subjected to several permutations to elicit any links between refractive outcomes and patient age. RESULTS: The key findings were as follows y = postop SEQ (diopters), x = patient age (years), ln(x) = natural logarithm of patient age: At 1 month, y = x[0.049 -0.011.ln(x)] (R = -0.205, p = 0.001, n = 161). At 3 months, y = x[0.077 -0.017.ln(x)] (R = -0.355, p < 0.001, n = 161). At 6 months, y = x[0.088 -0.020.ln(x)] (R = -0.382, p < 0.001, n = 161). At 12 months, y = x[0.093 -0.021.ln(x)] (R = -0.409, p < 0.001, n = 161). There was no significant association between x and y at 1 week (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Residual postop refractive error after LASIK for hyperopia has a logarithmic association with patient age at time of surgery. In younger patients there is tendency toward undercorrection, the opposite occurs in older patients and this persists 1 year after treatment.

The Impact of Changes in Corneal Back Surface Astigmatism on the Residual Astigmatic Refractive Error following Routine Uncomplicated Phacoemulsification.

PURPOSE: To determine the significance of any association between intersessional changes in ocular residual astigmatism (RA) and astigmatism at corneal front (FSA) and back (BSA) surfaces following uneventful routine phacoemulsification. METHODS: Astigmatism was evaluated by autorefractometry and subjective refraction and at both the corneal surfaces with Orbscan II™ (Bausch & Lomb) over central 3 mm and 5 mm optical zones at 1, 2, and 3 months after routine phacoemulsification in 103 patients implanted with monofocal nontoric intraocular lenses (IOLs, one eye/patient). Data were subjected to vector analysis to determine the actual change (Δ) in astigmatism (power and axis) for the refractive and Orbscan II findings. RESULTS: The number of cases that attended where ΔRA was ≥0.50 DC between 1 and 2 months was 52 by autorefractometry and 36 by subjective refraction and between 2 and 3 months was 24 by autorefractometry and 19 by subjective refraction. Vector analysis revealed significant correlations between ΔFSA and ΔRA for data obtained by autorefractometry but not by subjective refraction. At all times, ΔBSA was greater than ΔFSA (p < 0.01). Key findings for ΔBSA values over the central 3 mm zone were between (A) the sine of the axis of ΔRA (y) and sine of the axis of ΔBSA (x) for the data obtained by autorefractometry (between 1 and 2 months, y = 0.749 - 0.303x, r = 0.299, n = 52, p=0.031) and subjective refraction (between 2 and 3 months, y = 0.6614 - 0.4755x, r = 0.474, n = 19, p=0.040) and (B) ΔRA (y) and ΔBSA (x) powers between 2 and 3 months postoperatively for the data obtained by autorefractometry (ΔRA = 0.118 ΔBSA + 0.681 r = 0.467, n = 24, p=0.021) and subjective refraction (ΔRA = 0.072 ΔBSA + 0.545 r = 0.510, n = 19, p=0.026). CONCLUSION: Changes in the ocular residual refractive astigmatic error after implanting a monofocal nontoric IOL are associated with changes in astigmatism at the back surface of the cornea within the central optical zone.

Vector Analysis of Changes in the Higher Order Ocular Aberrations and Central Corneal Thickness After T-PRK and Fs-LASIK.

INTRODUCTION: Refractive surgery procedures, transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (T-PRK) and femtosecond laser in situ keratomileusis (Fs-LASIK) are regarded as safe and efficacious methods for correcting myopia and myopic astigmatism. These two methods do not have much differences in results when treating spherical myopia, while some differences does exist in treatment of myopic astigmatism. Vector analysis presents powerful tool to show the real differences between these two methods regarding higher order ocular aberrations and central corneal thickness of treated eyes. AIM: The aim of the study is to investigate changes in higher order ocular aberrations (HOAs) and central corneal thickness (CCT) following treatment of myopia and myopic astigmatism above -5.00DS and up to -2.00DC after either T-PRK or Fs-LASIK. METHODS: Patients (30 eyes per group) underwent T-PRK (group I) or Fs-LASIK (group II) procedure using Schwind Amaris 750S laser. HOAs (3mm&5mm pupil) and CCT were measured objectively at pre-, 1,3 & 6 months postop in each case. RESULTS: Key results at 6 months were: i) mean values of trefoil (5mm pupil) were 0.092µm (sd,0.055,95% CI 0.072 to 0.112) & 0.126µm (sd,0.078,95% CI 0.098 to 0.154) in group I, and 0.088µm (sd,0.058,95% CI 0.067 to 0.109) & 0.064µm (sd,0.034,95% CI 0.052 to 0.076) in group II (P=0.001 at 6 months); ii) Changes in CCT (ΔCCT) and best spherical equivalent correction (ΔBSE) was significant in group II (ΔCCT=-26.55[ΔBSE]-14.06,R=0.486,P=0.006) but not in group I (p=0.034). CONCLUSIONS: After T-PRK trefoil is worse than Fs-LASIK. The predictability of corneal changes is better following Fs-LASIK. .

The impact of exposure on the magnitude of astigmatism formed within the precorneal tear film over the central optical zone of the cornea in ocular surface disease.

PURPOSE: To estimate the astigmatic power and axis of the tear film over the central optical zone of the cornea by vector analysis of topographic data, in ocular surface disease (OSD) and controls, during blink suppression. METHODS: Video-keratoscopic images were captured on opening the eyes after a single blink 5, 10 & 15 s later during blink suppression in OSD patients (mixed aetiology, group 1 age 20 - 50 years, n = 12, group 2 > 50 years, n = 38) and controls (group 3, n = 19). The SimK and axis values were used to calculate the astigmatism (power and axis) that formed in the precorneal tear film during each period. Data were aggregated into 3 periods; T0-T5 (between 0 & 5 s after the blink), T5-T10 (5 & 10 s later, T10-T15 (between 10 & 15 s later). RESULTS: Mean (± SD, 95%CI) astigmatic power (DC) formed in the tear film over each period was respectively : Group 1, -0.81 DC (0.99, -1.44 to -0.17), -2.65 DC(1.36, -3.52 to -1.79), -1.37 DC (2.15, -2.73 to -0.01). Group 2, -0.33 DC (0.38, -0.45 to -0.20), -0.57 DC (0.97, -0.91 to -0.24) -0.96 DC (2.10, -1.68 to -0.24), Group 3, -0.57 DC (0.55 -0.76 to -0.38), -0.56 DC (0.57, -0.76 to -0.37), -0.31 DC (0.44, -0.46 to -0.16). Changes were significant in groups 1 (p = 0.013) & 3 (p = 0.033) but not in 2 (p = 0.078). Intergroup differences were significant at all periods (p < 0.05). Significant correlations were detected following vector analysis, e.g Group2 between the astigmatism formed during T5-T10 (y) and ocular surface astigmatism at 5 s was y = 0.281x - 0.834 (r = 0.328, n = 38, p < 0.05). In all three groups apparent changes in the axes of astigmatism were not significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: Changes in the precorneal tear film after blinking are predominately astigmatic indicating that changes in the central region of the tear film following the natural blink are quasi-orthogonal.

Cross-linking treatment for better visual acuity.

Aim To correlate the maximum anterior sagittal curvature (Kmax) changes and uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in keratoconus patients after the cross-linking (CXL) procedure. Methods Forty-four eyes of 34 patients with keratoconus were analysed after the standard Dresden protocol CXL procedure had been performed. All patients underwent complete preoperative examination with a follow-up of 12 months with focus on UDVA, CDVA and Oculus Pentacam (Scheimpflug technology) analysis. We analysed and correlated Kmax changes in the postoperative period of 12 months together with visual acuity changes. Results Visual acuity improved significantly in the first 3 months after the procedure and even more significantly until the end of the first year. Even Kmax is the most relevant and most followed parameter for progression and regression of keratoconus, its lowering was not directly correlated with the visual acuity improvement (both uncorrected and corrected) in the first 6 months after corneal CXL procedure. Kmax was changed significantly in the period of 12 months post cross linking, but not in the first 6 months. Conclusion Corneal CXL should be considered as a procedure not just for corneal stiffening and stabilization, but also for visual acuity improvement in keratoconus patients.

The relationship between clinical measures of aniseikonia and stereoacuity before and after LASIK.

PURPOSE: To determine the significance of changes and and inter-relationships between three markers of binocular function (aniseikonia, distance and near stereoacuity) following unremarkable LASIK at 3 and 6 months postoperatively. METHODS: All patients underwent LASIK using the Schwind Amaris 750S and the flaps were created using Intralase 150 kHz. Patients were I, monocular myopes II, binocular myopes III, binocular hyperopes IV, binocular astigmats V, anisometropes and VI, matched age and gender control (n = 20 in each group except III where n = 18). Aniseikonia (Awaya test), distance and near stereoacuity (Randot tests) were measured before surgery, and at 3 and 6 months after surgery. At all times data were collected under constant conditions and analyzed using appropriate non-parametric statistical tests. RESULTS: The following statistically significant changes were found after applying the Bonferroni correction (p ≤ 0.001); aniseikonia reduced (groups I, III, IV, V), stereoacuity improved at distance (groups I, III-V) and near (groups I, V). Inter-group differences in aniseikonia distance and near stereoacuity were significant preoperatively, but not postoperatively. In groups I, IV and V, the changes in aniseikonia and stereoacuity (near and distance) were significantly correlated with the preoperative value. Aniseikonia was significantly correlated with distance and near stereoacuity preoperatively but not postoperatively. CONCLUSION: Binocular function improved in all groups after LASIK except in binocular myopes. In general, binocular function was still low compared with the control group at six months postoperatively. It is unclear why binocular function improved in the binocular astigmats.