The Effect of Nerve Growth Factor on Corneal Sensitivity after Laser in Situ Keratomileusis.
- Author:
Seok Ho JO
1
;
Myung Jin JOO
;
Terrence P O'BRIEN
Author Information
1. Department of Ophthalmology, Inje University Seoul Paik Hospital, Korea. mjjoo@injc.inje.ac.kr
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Corneal sensitivity;
LASIK;
Nerve growth factor
- MeSH:
Double-Blind Method;
Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ*;
Nerve Growth Factor*;
Prospective Studies;
Rabbits
- From:Journal of the Korean Ophthalmological Society
2003;44(12):2885-2889
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:Korean
-
Abstract:
PURPOSE: To determine if topically administered nerve growth factor (NGF) plays a role in accelerating the recovery of corneal sensitivity after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). METHODS: A prospective double-masked study comparing the effect of topical NGF or balanced salt solution on corneal sensitivity after LASIK in rabbits was performed. Pre- and postoperative corneal sensitivity was assessed using the Cochet-Bonnet esthesiometer. RESULTS: Eyes that were treated with topical NGF demonstrated an earlier and faster recovery of corneal sensitivity after LASIK (p=0.0071). A statistically significant difference in corneal sensitivity was found between the topical NGF and control group at the postoperative time points of 2 weeks (p=0.0098), 3 weeks (p=0.0309), and 4 weeks (p=0.0276). CONCLUSIONS: Our results suggest that topically administered NGF plays a significant role in accelerating corneal reinnervation after LASIK.
