The surgical correction of refractive errors of the eye

Authors review the available surgical methods, the radial keratotomy, the keratophakia, the keratomileusis, the epikeratophakia and the excimer laser technique which are available presently in order to change the refractive power of the eye. The newest excimer technique is discussed in detail. During the past one and a half year period authors performed and closely followed 37 photorefractive keratectomies with the use of Aesculap Meditec MEL 60 excimer laser. They present the postoperative results, according to their experiences, the method is highly effective and predictable in treating myopic refractive failures. The side effects were of no clinical importance.