Therapeutic alloplastic laser in situ keratomileusis for myopia.

BACKGROUND A new technique, therapeutic alloplastic laser in situ keratomileusis to correct high myopia, is introduced. METHODS Therapeutic alloplastic laser in situ keratomileusis consists of neutral homoplastic epikeratoplasty combined with superficial keratectomy performed with an excimer laser and/or a microkeratome. Indications for the technique are: myopia over 20 diopters (D), eyes with corneal scarring after photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), complications following keratomileusis, radial keratotomy complications with undercorrection, and keratoconus suspect myopic eyes. RESULTS In all five eyes we achieved precise corneal lathing with the microkeratome or the excimer laser, and obtained a clear allograft. In all eyes, we maintained or improved the patient's spectacle-corrected visual acuity related to baseline values. We did not induce astigmatism, and corneal thickness was almost unchanged. CONCLUSIONS Advantages of therapeutic alloplastic laser in situ keratomileusis are that it provides a Bowman's layer for the cornea following keratectomy, it is possible to lathe ablation diameters larger than 5 mm, it prevents the appearance of corneal haze, and reduces the need for corticosteroid treatment.