1. EPI-LASIK using the Zyoptix XP EPI Separator Suphi Taneri
ASCRS Symposium, April 4-9, 2008, Chicago
Travel grant by Bausch & Lomb

2. Purpose
To evaluate the safety and predictability of Epi-LASIK using the Zyoptix XP microkeratome and the influence of the epithelial flap in laser surface ablation on visual recovery and pain.

3. Methods Baseline, n = 8 eyes
Age (Years)
Corneal Thickness (µm)
Sphere (dpt)
Cylinder (dpt)
SE (dpt)
BCVA
average Keratometry
(dpt)
Mean 28
520
-1.34
-0.88
-1.78
0.98
43.30 SD 26
2.95
0.65
2.89
0.07
1.07
Min 19
483
-6.25
0.0
0.8
42.40
Max 48
556
2.75
-1.75
2.38
1.0
45.20
In this prospective, comparative (self-controlled) single center
pilot study 8 eyes that were treated with Epi-LASIK by the same
surgeon using the XP EPI Separator were examined.

4. Epi-Separator Passage
Results
Epi-Separator Passage
no complications
free flap
Bowman injury
torn flap 6 2 1
Epi-Flap
discarded
repositioned

5. Results HE stain of the discarded flap magnification 200x
Microscopical examination showed complete epithelial separation

6. Results PAS stain of the discarded flap magnification 200x
Microscopical examination showed complete epithelial separation

7. Visual recovery

8. Healing Process
Pain perception of the patient: Description of pain on a scale from 0 (no pain) to 10 (very strong pain)

9. Healing Process

10. Healing Process
Haze at 3 months visit: mean 0,7, range 0-1,5 (Fantes scale 0 – 3)

11. Conclusion
Initial results of this ongoing trial indicate a safe and standardized fashion of performing a surface ablation using the Zyoptix XP Epi Separator.
Further results may help to elucidate the role of the epithelial flap in surface ablation.