Effect of the Learning Curve on Visual and Refractive Outcomes of Small-Incision Lenticule Extraction

Abstract

PURPOSE: To investigate the effect of the learning curve for small-incision lenticule extraction during the first 2 years of experience. METHODS: Small-incision lenticule extraction was performed using the 500-kHz VisuMax femtosecond laser (Carl Zeiss Meditec) by the same surgeon. The initial 100 patients since the surgeon started operating independently were considered as group 1; the recent 100 patients were considered as group 2. The same laser settings and technique were used. The visual and refractive outcomes were compared between groups at postoperative 1 week and 6 months. Vector analysis was performed for eyes with astigmatic correction. RESULTS: Two hundred right eyes of 200 patien..