Abstract
PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to discuss the possible risk factors predisposing to post photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) haze formation and develop and validate a risk scoring system, so that this could be applied to our clinical practice as an algorithmic approach. METHODS: Study was divided into 2 arms, in the retrospective arm we looked at 238 eyes of patients undergoing PRK where certain presumed risk factors from literature and clinical experience were identified and statistical significance of association was studied in the development of corneal haze. The risk scoring system was applied to the 450 eyes in the prospective arm for validation. This was then used to formulate an algorithmic approach to manage post-PRK haze. RESULTS: 22 out of 238 eyes in the retrospective arm developed haze where risk factors such as contact lens intolerance, altered tear film break up time, meibomian gland drop out and vitamin d levels were significantly associated with post-PRK haze (p < 0.05) and these factors were identified in the prospective arm. Treatment of these modifiable factors led to a significant reduction in post-PRK haze. CONCLUSION: Thus identifying and treating risk factors of haze in patients undergoing PRK could improve surgical outcomes and patient satisfaction.