Femtosecond laser-assisted arcuate corneal incisions for the treatment of residual astigmatism after keratoplasty

Abstract

Objective: To determine the effectiveness of femtosecond laser-assisted arcuate incisions for the treatment of residual astigmatism following a keratoplasty. Method: Observational, descriptive case series, cross-sectional study. 18 patients with residual corneal astigmatism posterior to keratoplasty were evaluated. Estimated parameters: visual acuity, astigmatic value, keratometry, pachymetry, pre-treatment, at 24 hours, 7 days, and 30 days after surgery, and vector analysis (Alpin method). Results: The safety and efficacy indices were 0.66 D and 0.5 D, respectively. One month postoperatively, a significant improvement in visual acuity was observed, with a 50.1% gain in vision and a 49.12% reduction in astigmatism. 75% of patients achieved the expected visual results. Conclusions: Arcuate corneal incisions are an effective method for correcting residual astigmatism post keratoplasty, with significant improvements in vision that were sustained until the third month. However, limitations included a small sample size and a short follow-up period.