Changes of Higher Order Aberrations with the Use of Various Mydriatics

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the changes of higher-order aberrations of the eye with the application of various mydriatics. METHODS: Higher-order aberrations were measured in 18 eyes of 11 subjects (ages 26 to 37 years; 9 males, 2 females) without any ocular diseases except refractive errors. Repeated measurements were conducted before and after instillation of 1 drop of three different mydriatics 10% phenylephrine, a combination of 0.5% tropicamide and 0.5% phenylephrine (Mydrin(R)-P), and 1% cyclopentolate. The data from 6 mm pupil size were calculated and analyzed. RESULTS: Average root mean square of higher-order (HO-RMS) aberrations was 0.39 in undilated eyes. The averages HO-RMS after instillation of phenylephrine, Mydrin(R)-P, and cyclopentolate was 0.40, 0.41, and 0.42, respectively. There was no statistically significant difference among the four HO-RMS conditions. The spherical aberration of undilated or phenylephrine-instilled condition was different from that of Mydrin(R)-P or cyclopentolate condition (p<0.05). CONCLUSIONS: The application of mydriatics affected the higher-order aberrations of eyes. These findings should be considered when performing wavefront-guided refractive surgery.