Keratectomy

Keratectomy is a type of eye surgery that involves the removal of part of the cornea. The procedure is often used to treat various eye diseases and conditions, such as keratoconus, corneal dystrophy, and corneal ulcers.

Types of Keratectomy

There are several types of keratectomy, including:

• Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK): This is a type of refractive surgery used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. PRK works by reshaping the cornea using a laser.

• Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK): This procedure is used to treat corneal diseases and conditions, such as recurrent corneal erosion syndrome and corneal dystrophies. Like PRK, PTK also involves the use of a laser.

• Epithelial keratectomy: This procedure involves the removal of the epithelial layer of the cornea. It is often used in conjunction with other procedures, such as corneal collagen cross-linking.

Procedure

The specific steps of a keratectomy procedure can vary depending on the type of keratectomy being performed. However, in general, the procedure involves the use of a laser or a surgical instrument to remove a portion of the cornea. The patient is typically awake during the procedure, but local anesthesia is used to numb the eye and prevent pain.

Risks and Complications

As with any surgical procedure, keratectomy carries some risks and potential complications. These may include infection, corneal haze, and changes in vision. In some cases, additional surgery may be required to correct these complications.

See Also

• Cornea
• Eye surgery
• Refractive surgery

Keratectomy Resources
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