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Phototherapeutic Keratectomy: Science and Art
Journal of Refractive Surgery (Thorofare, N.J. : 1995)
|March 7, 2017
Summary
Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) effectively treats corneal scars, irregular astigmatism, and recurrent corneal erosions. This surgical technique offers improved visual acuity for various corneal surface irregularities.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Laser Vision Correction
Background:
- Corneal scars, surface irregularities, and recurrent erosions can impair vision.
- Traditional treatments may not always be sufficient.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the principles of excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK).
- To illustrate PTK applications for corneal scars, surface irregularity, and recurrent erosions using videos.
Main Methods:
- Epithelial removal via transepithelial ablation or scraping.
- Stromal PTK performed with or without photorefractive keratectomy (PRK).
- Masking-smoothing PTK for residual irregularity; mitomycin C application.
Main Results:
- Transepithelial PTK improves visual acuity, even with incomplete opacity removal.
- PTK effectively debulks surface irregularities for subsequent procedures.
- PTK for recurrent erosion requires careful epithelial debridement and minimal laser application.
Conclusions:
- Excimer laser PTK is highly effective for superficial corneal scars.
- PTK successfully treats central corneal irregular astigmatism unresponsive to other methods.
- This technique is a valuable option for recurrent corneal erosions resistant to medical management.
