Corneal topography of phase III excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy. Characterization and clinical effects. Summit Photorefractive Keratectomy Topography Study Group.

PURPOSE: To define qualitative patterns of corneal topography after excimer laser photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), assess changes in patterns, associations with clinical outcomes, and the accuracy of videokeratography in predicting results, and define quantitatively the optical zone contour.

METHODS: Computer-assisted videokeratography data obtained from 181 patients after PRK was analyzed. Topography patterns at two time points were characterized, and associations with clinical outcomes were tested. Power change predicted by topography was compared with refractive change, and cross-sectional power contours were analyzed.

RESULTS: Seven topography patterns were defined. At 1 year, 58.6% of corneas showed a homogeneous topography, 17.7% showed a toric-with-axis configuration, 2.8% showed a toric-against-axis configuration, 13.8% showed an irregularly irregular topography, 2.8% showed a keyhole/semicircular pattern, and 4.4% showed focal topographic variants. No central island patterns were found. Of the maps, 41% changed over time. Uncorrected vision, predictability, and patient satisfaction were best in the homogeneous group. Astigmatism increased in the irregular and toric-against-axis groups and decreased in the toric-with-axis group. There was no relation of topography pattern to best-corrected vision or subjective glare/halo. Cross-sectional power profiles showed a homogeneous power change for the central 3 mm with a diminution in correction toward the periphery. The topography unit tended to overestimate refractive change for corrections of 5 diopters or less and underestimate the change for corrections greater than 5 diopters.

CONCLUSIONS: Topography patterns after PRK are identifiable, time dependent, and may affect clinical outcomes. Understanding the actual corneal optical contour resulting from PRK may aid in improving both laser techniques and optical results in the future.