Safety and Efficacy of Epi-Bowman Keratectomy in Photorefractive Keratectomy and Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking: A Pilot Study.

Purpose: The purpose of this study is to compare the efficacy and safety of Epi-Bowman Keratectomy (EBK) using Epi-clear™ epikeratome with a mechanical scraper for corneal epithelium debridement during photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).

Methodology: Sixty eyes of 30 patients undergoing PRK and 44 eyes of 44 patients undergoing CXL were included in this study. In the PRK group, one eye of each patient underwent EBK and the other eye epithelial debridement with a mechanical scraper.

Assessment of avoidable blindness using the rapid assessment of avoidable blindness methodology.

Background: More than 90% of visual impairment can either be treated or avoided. Rapid Assessment of Avoidable Blindness methodology provides valid estimates in short time to assess magnitude and causes of blindness.

Aims: To estimate the prevalence and causes of blindness in persons above 50 years in Kolar, South India, using the above methodology.