Laser in situ keratomileusis for astigmatism greater than -3.50 D with the Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser.

PURPOSE: LASIK with the Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser was used to treat high astigmatism. METHODS: The Nidek EC-5000 excimer laser and ACS microkeratome were used in regular LASIK procedures. Results of 74 eyes with astigmatism of more than 3.50 D and up to 10.00 D were evaluated. RESULTS: With Nidek algorithms, it was possible to eliminate refractive error completely or reduce it to a satisfactory amount, especially in difficult cases of mixed astigmatism with high astigmatic components. CONCLUSION: The Nidek software for mixed and high astigmatism was efficient, predictable, and produced good results in difficult cases of high astigmatism.