Mechanical vs. Alcohol Separation of the Corneal Epithelium During Surface Ablation Refractive Procedures

Inclusion criteria

• Subject must be a candidate for surface ablation procedures in both eyes.
• ≥ 18 years of age or older.
• Myopia ≤ -6.00 D.
• Astigmatism ≤ - 3.00 D.
• Manifest refraction spherical equivalent (MRSE) of -6.00 D.
• Capable of wearing a bandage contact lens.
• Willing and able to comply with scheduled visits and other study procedures.

Exclusion criteria

• History of ocular pathology.
• Very large pupils (greater than 8mm diameter, infrared measurement).
• Thin corneas (preoperatively calculated minimal residual bed < 250 um).
• If patient fit into the group of the usual exclusionary criteria (e.g. irregular astigmatism, asymmetric astigmatism, unstable refraction - most of these patients would not typically be considered LASIK candidates under normal circumstances).
• History of previous refractive surgery.
• Corneal irregularities potentially affecting visual acuity: keratoconus, corneal dystrophy, corneal opacities.
• Participation in (or current participation) any investigational drug or device trial within the previous 30 days prior to the start date of this trial.
• Intraocular conventional surgery within the past three months or intraocular laser surgery within one month in the operated eye.
• Use of any systemic or topical drug known to interfere with visual performance.
• Pregnant or nursing mothers and females of childbearing potential not practicing a reliable and medically acceptable method of birth control
• Inability or unwillingness of subjects to give written informed consent.