The Evaluation of Contrast Sensitivity and Glare after LASIK Using Flying Spot Mode Laser According to Pupil Diameter and Refractive Error

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To study the effect of LASIK using flying spot mode laser on contrast sensitivity and glare according to pupil diameter and preoperative refractive error. METHODS: Fifty seven eyes of 42 patients had LASIK using MEL 70 G-scan (Asclepion Meditec, Germany) to correct myopia ranging from -2.50 to -10.50 diopter (D). The contrast and glare sensitivity were measured preoperatively and 1 week, 1 month and 3 months after LASIK using CGT-1000 (Takagi, Japan). RESULTS: The mean preoperative spherical equivalent (SE) was -5.4+/-2.9D. The mean pupil diameter was 5.95+/-0.46 mm in scotopic condition. Contrast sensitivity was significantly reduced 1 month after LASIK, depending on pupil diameter and degree of preoperative myopia. However, values returned to preoperative figures thereafter (P<0.05). Glare sensitivity was improved at all frequencies 3 months after LASIK, and most significantly at high frequency (P=.031). CONCLUSIONS: LASIK using employing the flying spot mode laser can effectively accomplish refractive correction without reduction of preoperative contrast and glare sensitivity values.