Approach to Middle Hyperopia by Laser in Situ Keratomileusis - Retrospective Study (1995 - 1999) In this study, the authors present their findings concerning the usage of the LASIK method in 225 cases of hyperopia. This method has been used in our ELAS refractive centre from 1995 in the treatment of hyperopia up to +7.0 D. The average preoperative spherical equivalent in this group was +4.91 D, and in cycloplegic refraction +5.20 D (± 1.94 D). The postoperative average spherical equivalent was 0.53 D (± 0.58 D). Uncorrected visual acuity is used as the main criterion in assessing the effectivness of the refractive procedure. The average uncorrected visual acuity was improved from a preoperative value of 0.4 (± 0.27) to a postoperative one of 0.8 (± 0.24). The average value of the best correct visual acuity worsened from 0.98 (± 0.31) preoperatively to 0.88 (± 0.23) postoperatively. This was perhaps caused by the side-effects of laser ablation (glare), which occurred in using LASIK with cases of hyperopia of over +5.0 D. For this reason, the choice of the LASIK method for correction of middle hyperopia should be made with caution.

        Key words: words: hyperopia, cycloplegic refraction, excimer laser, LASIK, corneal flap, laser ablation.