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Photorefractive Keratectomy Laser Eye Surgery
Nicola Kennedy
Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a laser eye surgery
procedure that is carried out with the key intent to correct a
patient's vision. PRK permanently changes the shape of the
frontal corneal tissue using an excimer laser, which is a
high-precision ultraviolet chemical laser. The outer layer of
the cornea (epithelium) is removed, and then a small amount of
the corneal tissue is burnt off using the laser. Such an
ablation renders the desired shape to the cornea and allows for
optimal refraction.
PRK is a technologically advanced surgical procedure. For
instance, a computer system tracks the eye position around 4,000
times per second, redirecting laser pulses for precise ablation.
As mentioned above, the epithelium is removed prior to ablation.
This does not hamper the patient's vision, since the epithelium
is a soft and regenerating layer, which is capable of completely
replacing itself within a matter of days. However, the deeper
layers, once burnt off, will remain that way because they
possess limited regenerative capability. This theory is the
cornerstone of the Photorefractive keratectomy surgical
procedure.
PRK differs from LASIK in a way that the epithelium is removed
in PRK and allowed to regenerate. On the other hand, LASIK does
not involve epithelium removal. Instead it consists of cutting a
flap in the cornea in order to make the desired incisions.
Compared to LASIK, a patient who has undergone PRK experiences
more pain and recovery is slow. However, both procedures are
similar in the respect that they make use of a laser.
Photorefractive keratectomy is a viable procedure, but it does
have possible complications. Apart from slow recovery and pain,
the patient may experience glares and halos. As in any
refractive surgery, there is a possibility of over- or
under-correction. Eye surgeons typically perform PRK on one eye
at a time, in order to gauge the results of the procedure and
ensure its efficacy.
In a majority of cases, PRK has proven to be a safe and
efficacious procedure to correct myopia. However, since the
procedure is irreversible, it is recommended that the patient
consults an eye doctor instead of jumping on a conclusion.
About the author:
You will find the Directory of LASIK
Surgeons useful. Nicola Kennedy publishes articles and
reports and provides news, views and information about alternatives to LASIK eye
surgery at Your Lasik Information.
Copyright http://www.Your-LASIK.info This article may be
reprinted in full so long as the resource box and live links
remain intact.
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