Utilização da Radiofreqüência para o Tratamento do Ceratocone

AUTOR(ES)
DATA DE PUBLICAÇÃO

2006

RESUMO

Purpose: To evaluate the use of radiofrequency as a device for correcting, stabilizing, and centralizing advanced central keratoconus. Setting: Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and the State University of Alagoas (UNCISAL) Brazil. Methods: In this prospective comparative study, radiofrequency was applied to 25 keratoconic eyes in 21 consecutive patients (12 women and 9 men), all with clear central cornea. Corneas were divided into 2 groups according to the topographic k reading of the cone. Group A comprised patients with K reading between 54 and 58 D and Group B, in more advanced keratoconic eyes, with K reading (>58 D). Eight thermal points (group A) were applied around the cornea (4 mm optical zone) and, 16 spots (group B) were applied in 4 and 5 mm optical zone. The minimum follow-up was one year for all cases. Differences between preoperative and postoperative uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), best spectacle-corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), manifest refraction, and k reading were clinically and statistically evaluated. Results: At the end of the first year of the postoperative follow-up, all cases showed statistically significant improvement (P <0.05) in mean UCVA and BSCVA. The mean preoperative UCVA was 20/480 (1.36 ± 0.31 LogMAR). At the end of 12 months, mean UCVA was 20/250 (1.13 ± 0.32 LogMAR). Preoperative BSCVA was 20/125 (0.83 ± 0.30 LogMAR) and 20/60 (0.48 ± 0.23 LogMAR) one year later. In all cases, contact lens fitting was made easier due to improved cone centralization. Mean visual acuity was then 20/32 (0.23 ± 0.14 LogMAR). Corneal scar was seen in one patient at the 3-month followup (Patient 2). In group B postoperative spherical equivalent error (SE) decrease (- 2.88 D) (p <0.042) and group A SE decrease (-1.31 D) (p = 0.59). Conclusion: Radiofrequency appears to be safe and effective in the treatment of advanced central keratoconus. It reduced irregular astigmatism near the visual axis, leading to improvement in visual acuity in all cases. Contact lens fitting was easier and stable after the procedure.

ASSUNTO(S)

transtornos da visão/reabilitação decs ceratocone/terapia decs ceratocone/cirurgia decs

ACESSO AO ARTIGO

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