Phototherapeutic Keratectomy

Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is an excimer laser based surgical procedure widely performed by corneal surgeons for treating anterior corneal stromal pathologies. PTK helps by ablating the corneal stroma, thereby improving corneal clarity and smoothening the surface. Transient discomfort and induced hyperopia from corneal flattening are the immediate post-operative concerns. The long term course is often marked by the recurrence of original corneal pathology and corneal haze formation. PTK, however, allows for repeat stromal ablation for managing recurrences, as the corneal thickness permits, without affecting the outcome of future keratoplasty.
Source: Survey of Ophthalmology - Category: Opthalmology Authors: Tags: Diagnostic and surgical techniques Source Type: research