Posters

A comparative study of Epi-Bowman keratectomy and ethanol in photorefractive keratectomy

Poster Details

First Author: R. Ruiz-Mesa SPAIN

Co Author(s):    A. Abengozar-Vela                    

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy of Epi-Bowman Keratectomy (EBK) using Epi-Clear™ epikeratome with a mechanical scraper and ethanol for corneal epithelium debridement in photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).

Setting:

Oftalvist CIO Jerez, Jerez de la Frontera, Spain

Methods:

The corneal epithelium is usually removed before PRK because it can result in surface irregularity caused by variability in the epithelial removal process. In this study the effects of mechanical deepithelialization with Epi-Clear™ epikeratome and chemical epithelial removal using 20 % ethanol on the corneal epithelium were studied in patients undergoing PRK photoablation. Visual acuity, post-operative pain score and the epithelial profile and thickness using the Optovue (Optovue Inc. Fremont, CA) were measured after PRK photoablation.

Results:

Post-operative visual acuity and pain were similar in both groups. Epithelial profile during the healing phase showed a regularized and smooth corneal epithelium in EBK patients.

Conclusions:

Epi-Bowman Keratectomy is an effective method of corneal epithelial debridement reducing the post-operative pain and complications.

Financial Disclosure:

NONE