Kim JY, Heo JH, Park SJ, Choi YS, Wee WR, Lee JH. Changes in corneal epithelial barrier function after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy.
J Cataract Refract Surg 1998;
24:1571-4. [PMID:
9850892 DOI:
10.1016/s0886-3350(98)80344-1]
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Abstract
PURPOSE
To use fluorophotometry to measure corneal epithelial barrier function after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
SETTING
Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul, Korea.
METHODS
Twenty-five eyes of 21 patients (13 women, 8 men) had PRK to correct myopia. Corneal epithelial healing time was measured and corneal epithelial permeability to sodium fluorescein evaluated by fluorophotometry 1, 2, and 3 weeks after surgery.
RESULTS
Epithelial permeability showed a statistically significant increase 1 week after surgery and returned to its preoperative level 1 week later. Comparative studies according to epithelial healing day and corrected diopter showed results that were not statistically significant (P > .05).
CONCLUSION
These results suggest that PRK delays complete reconstruction of corneal epithelial barrier function. In humans, the corneal epithelium regained its normal barrier function 2 weeks after PRK. Thus, at least during these weeks, care should be taken to minimize further epithelial trauma.
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