Refractive error (ametropia) is a common condition resulting in decreased visual
acuity. Patients are treated and symptoms can be corrected with eyeglasses, contact
lenses, or surgery. Eyeglasses are the simplest and safest means of refractive error
correction. Laser eye surgeries are a subset of surgical procedures used to correct
most common refractive errors and are the most frequently performed procedures for
low to moderate near-sightedness (myopia). Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), was
developed over 20 years ago, and subsequently wavefront-guided laser in situ
keratomileusis (LASIK) has become the most commonly performed keratorefractive
procedure. Other procedures are variations of PRK and include laser epithelial
keratomileusis (LASEK) and epi-LASIK. Long term studies demonstrate excellent
safety, efficacy, and stability of these procedures with long term refractive
stability for far-sighted (hyperopic) patients less certain than for myopic
patients.
Some concern remains regarding the stability of post-surgical refractive error which
is reflected in post-surgical waiting periods for refractive surgery patients
applying for some occupations with visual acuity requirements in Canada. This report
aims to retrieve and review the clinical effectiveness evidence for laser eye
surgery as compared to eyeglasses and no treatment for patients with new vision
correction requirements and those with unstable visual acuity requiring a change to
current refractive correction. Additionally, this report aims to retrieve and review
evidence-based guidelines associated with laser eye surgery for first responders and
patients with occupational requirements for high visual acuity.
About the Series
Rapid Response Report: Summary with Critical Appraisal
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