Comparison of visual acuity, refractive results and complications of femtosecond laser with mechanical microkeratome in LASIK

· AIM: To compare the outcomes of laser keratomileusis (LASIK) performed with a femtosecond laser (Femtec, Technolas Perfect Vision GmbH, Germany) versus a mechanical microkeratome (Hansatome, Bausch and Lomb, USA) for the correction of myopia and astigmatism. ·METHODS: In this retrospective study, patients who had undergone LASIK using the 80 -kHz Femtec femtosecond laser were compared to ageand refractionmatched patients in whom the Hansatome microkeratome was used. Refractive and visual results 1 month and 3 months postoperatively, and complication rates were compared between the two groups. ·RESULTS: A total of 280 eyes were analyzed (140 in each group). At 3 months postoperatively in the Femtec Hansatome group, spherical equivalent refraction was within ±1.00D of emmetropia in 140 138 eyes ( = 0.498), the cylinder was within ±0.50D in 137 139 eyes ( =0.622), and the UDVA was 20/20 or better in 136 137 eyes ( =0.724), respectively. There was no statistically significant difference in the complication rates between the two groups ( =0.099). · CONCLUSION: LASIK performed both with Femtec femtosecond laser and Hansatome microkeratome achieved satisfactory refractive and visual results at 3 months postoperatively, without significant differences in efficacy, safety, and complication rates between the two procedures. ·