PRK
PRK
PRK (pronounced: P-R-K), or Photorefractive Keratectomy, is a type of refractive surgery used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. The term "PRK" is derived from the Greek words "photo" meaning light, "refractive" referring to the bending of light, and "keratectomy" meaning the surgical removal of part of the cornea.
Procedure
PRK involves the use of a laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, to improve how light is focused onto the retina, thereby improving vision. Unlike LASIK, another type of refractive surgery, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap. Instead, the outer layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is removed before the underlying tissue is reshaped with a laser.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, PRK carries potential risks and complications. These may include infection, corneal haze, undercorrection or overcorrection, and regression of the initial surgical effect. It is important for patients to discuss these risks with their ophthalmologist before deciding to undergo PRK.
Related Terms
- Refractive Surgery: A type of eye surgery used to improve the refractive state of the eye and decrease or eliminate dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
- Myopia: Also known as nearsightedness, a condition of the eye where light focuses in front of, instead of on, the retina.
- Hyperopia: Also known as farsightedness, a condition of the eye where light focuses behind, instead of on, the retina.
- Astigmatism: A type of refractive error in which the eye does not focus light evenly on the retina.
- LASIK: Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis, a type of refractive surgery for the correction of myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
- Ophthalmologist: A medical doctor who specializes in eye and vision care.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on PRK
- Wikipedia's article - PRK
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