Phototherapeutische keratectomie (PTK)

Some conditions affecting the front of the cornea are accompanied by superficial corneal irregularities, resulting in impaired vision in the affected eye. These are irregularities which can’t be fixed using glasses or contact lenses. The goal of PTK is to reduce irregularities so that we can improve your vision.

Diseases which affect the front of the cornea and may involve corneal irregularities include map-dot-fingerprint dystrophy and Salzmann’s nodular degeneration. These irregularities can also occur following long-term corneal swelling (like that caused by Fuchs endothelial dystrophy or bullous keratopathy).

The treatment

PTK is carried out using an Excimer laser. The laser uses ‘no touch’ technology to remove the epithelium (the anterior layer of your cornea), and then the irregularities are then corrected. The laser treatment takes place on the surface of the deeper corneal layer (stroma). Then, after a few days, a new epithelium will grow back.

The eye is locally anaesthetised using eye drops. The duration of the treatment depends on the defect that needs to be corrected. After the surgery, cream will be applied to your eye, and a clear eye patch or bandage lens will be used to protect the eye. You can go home once the procedure has been completed. We recommend you bring someone with you, as your vision may be temporarily impaired following treatment.

Your corneal scans will be assessed and linked to the Excimer laser. Once your eye has been numbed using drops, the “no touch” technology will be used to first remove the epithelium, and then the corneal irregularities will be corrected. This usually takes no more than 30 seconds. You don’t need to be concerned if your eye moves a bit during laser surgery. An eye tracker monitors every eye movement and follows the eye. Following treatment, a bandage lens will be placed on the eye to help protect it until the epithelium has grown back.

After the treatment

You may experience some discomfort following the operation, and it’s a good idea to take it easy. We recommend you use the eye drops we prescribe for you to help the eye heal properly and reduce the risk of infection.

You never have to wait long at the Melles Cornea Clinic. Short waiting times are part of our commitment.