Abstract
BACKGROUND: Single-step transepithelial photorefractive keratectomy (TPRK) is a modern refractive surgery technique that offers a no-touch approach for correcting myopia and astigmatism. This study aims to evaluate the short-term visual and refractive outcomes of TPRK in patients with myopia and astigmatism over a 6-month follow-up period. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study included patients who underwent single-step TPRK using the Amaris 750S laser platform with SmartSurf(ACE) and SmartPulse(®) technologies, targeting a plano refraction. Procedures were performed with aspheric, non-wavefront-guided profiles, and outcomes were assessed postoperatively. RESULTS: 96% of eyes achieved 20/20 or better uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), with 98% reaching 20/25 or better, and 100% achieving 20/32 or better. UDVA was the same or better than preoperative corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) in 96% of eyes, and no eyes lost two or more Snellen lines. Refractive outcomes showed strong precision, with 93% of eyes within ±1.00 D of the target. Astigmatism correction was accurate, with 100% of eyes having ≤1.00 D of astigmatism, and 80% achieving a precise astigmatism angle of error between -5° and 5°. CONCLUSION: Single-step TPRK with SmartSurf(ACE) and SmartPulse(®) technologies provides highly effective and predictable visual and refractive outcomes for myopia and astigmatism. The procedure consistently delivers precise corrections with minimal complications, making it a reliable option for refractive surgery.