A pilot study: lenticule quality of hyperopic small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) in rabbits

Abstract

Background: To evaluate lenticule surface characteristics of small incision lenticule extraction (SMILE) for hyperopia correction in rabbits.Methods: The left and right eyes of 8 rabbits were divided into two groups. The right eyes were assigned to a hyperopia group, and the left eyes to a myopia group. The rabbits received SMILE procedures with +3.00 D and –3.00 D correction for the hyperopia and myopia groups, respectively. Extracted lenticules were examined via scanning electron microscopy. Lenticules from odd-numbered rabbits were accessed with the anterior surface, and lenticules from even-numbered rabbits were observed with the posterior surface. A previously established scoring system was used to evaluate lenticule surface characteristics. Statistical analysis was conducted to compare the scores between the two groups.Results: All procedures were performed successfully, and the lenticules were extracted smoothly. One myopia lenticule that was facing downward was handled failed in preparation for imaging, thus 15 lenticules were ultimately graded. Twelve lenticules exhibited smooth surfaces, and regularly arranged tissue bridges were observed in almost all regions. Three lenticules exhibited a partially rough surface and irregularities affecting more than 10% of the lenticules (2 in the hyperopia group and 1 in the myopia group). Rough lenticules occurred in twice as many Lenticules in the hyperopia group compared to the myopia group.Conclusions: Scan quality of lenticules after SMILE for hyperopia correction is comparable to that of myopia lenticules. The shape of hyperopic lenticule may increase the difficulty of surgical manipulation and result in surface roughness.

Comparison of intraocular lens power calculation formulas with and without total keratometry and ray tracing in patients with previous myopic SMILE

“…On the basis of this technique, many other applications, such as the correction of presbyopia and hyperopia, are currently in development. [3][4][5][6][7][8] As corneal refractive surgery is mostly performed in younger patients with SMILE being performed for less than 15 years now, little is known about the accuracy of intraocular lens (IOL) power calculation in eyes with previous SMILE. Regarding IOL calculation in eyes with previous SMILE, the literature is very sparse, and only single case reports can be found in the literature.…”