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Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy
1Cornea Service, Wills Eye Hospital, Philadephia, PA 19107.
Summary
Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy shows promising results for anterior corneal issues and post-surgical refractive errors. This less invasive treatment improved vision in over half of patients in preliminary studies.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Laser Surgery
- Corneal Disease
Background:
- The 193 nm argon-fluoride excimer laser is being explored for various eye treatments.
- Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) utilizes this laser for corneal procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the preliminary outcomes of excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy.
- To assess efficacy in patients with anterior corneal pathology and post-surgical refractive errors.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 15 patients divided into two groups: anterior corneal pathology (11 patients) and post-surgical refractive error (4 patients).
- Follow-up periods averaged 4.7 months for group 1 and 4.0 months for group 2.
Main Results:
- In the corneal pathology group, 55% of patients experienced improved visual acuity.
- In the refractive error group, 50% showed improved uncorrected visual acuity, with most others maintaining their vision.
- One patient experienced a vision decrease, potentially linked to retinal issues.
Conclusions:
- Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy demonstrates promising results.
- The procedure offers a less invasive alternative to other treatments for specific ocular conditions.