Aadhi Eye Hospital

Keratectomy

Keratectomy

Keratectomy is a surgical procedure involving the removal of a portion of the corneal tissue. It is typically performed to correct vision problems, treat corneal diseases, or remove damaged or diseased tissue. There are different types of keratectomy, each with specific indications and techniques.

Keratectomy Treatments

Keratectomy treatments involve different surgical procedures to address various conditions of the cornea, including vision correction, removal of damaged or diseased tissue, and treatment of corneal abnormalities.

1. Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK)

Purpose: To correct refractive errors such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism.

Procedure:

  • The outer layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed.
  • An excimer laser reshapes the underlying corneal tissue to correct the refractive error.
  • The epithelium regenerates over a few days.

Indications: Suitable for patients with thin corneas or those who are not good candidates for LASIK.

Recovery:

  • Vision improvement occurs gradually over days to weeks.
  • Temporary discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision are common during the initial healing phase.

2. Laser-Assisted Subepithelial Keratectomy (LASEK)

Purpose: Similar to PRK, LASEK corrects refractive errors but preserves the epithelial layer.

Procedure:

  • The epithelium is loosened with an alcohol solution and moved aside.
  • The cornea is reshaped with an excimer laser.
  • The epithelium is repositioned over the treated area.

Indications: Beneficial for patients with thin or steep corneas who may not be suitable for LASIK.

Recovery:

  • Similar to PRK, with gradual vision improvement and initial discomfort.

3. Superficial Keratectomy

Purpose: To remove superficial corneal scars, lesions, or opacities.

Procedure:

  • The superficial layer of the cornea is carefully removed, typically with a blade or laser.
  • This allows for clearer vision by eliminating surface irregularities.

Indications: Treats recurrent corneal erosions, corneal dystrophies, and superficial scars.

Recovery:

  • Temporary discomfort and blurred vision during healing.
  • Use of lubricating eye drops and sometimes bandage contact lenses to aid healing.

4. Automated Lamellar Therapeutic Keratectomy (ALTK)

Purpose: To treat various corneal conditions by removing damaged or diseased tissue.

Procedure:

  • A microkeratome creates a thin flap of corneal tissue.
  • The underlying corneal tissue is treated or reshaped.
  • The flap is repositioned.

Indications: Used for therapeutic purposes rather than vision correction, such as removing corneal opacities or lesions.

Recovery:

  • Depends on the extent of treatment and the individual’s healing response.

Considerations:

  • Candidates for keratectomy should undergo a thorough eye examination and consultation to determine the most suitable type of surgery for their condition.
  • Risks and potential complications, such as infection, scarring, and changes in vision, should be discussed with the surgeon.
  • Advances in laser technology and surgical techniques have significantly improved the safety and effectiveness of keratectomy procedures.

If you need more specific information or have any particular questions about keratectomy, feel free to ask!