Radial keratotomy: an overview

Radial keratotomy is a controversial procedure to eliminate or reduce myopia. It is being performed on a more frequent basis in this country, making it mandatory that all doctors of optometry become familiar with the operation. I begin with a brief history of the procedure, and discuss results of the Prospective Evaluation of Radial Keratotomy (PERK) study, as well as complications that patients need to be informed of.