Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK)

What is PTK?

PTK, or phototherapeutic keratectomy, is a type of corneal surgery using photoablation with an excimer laser.

Benefits:

  • improved visual acuity
  • increased patient comfort through the reduction of pain, light sensitivity and tearing
  • complete elimination or reduction of irregular astigmatism, compromised night vision, light splitting and other problems associated with corneal abnormalities

Indications and contraindications

  Indications
  • recurrent corneal erosions
  • post-inflammatory and post-traumatic corneal scarring
  • corneal dystrophy
  • irregular astigmatism
  • need for improved corneal curvature after earlier refractive procedures
  Contraindications
  • systemic diseases, including connective tissue diseases and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus or psoriasis
  • eye diseases such as glaucoma (increased intraocular pressure), cataract (cloudy lens) or conjunctivitis (red eye)
  • pregnancy and breastfeeding
  • taking certain medication such as oral steroids, since they compromise the body’s healing and defence mechanisms

The procedure

  • The whole procedure takes only a few minutes. Laser treatment itself does not take more than 30-60 seconds.
  • You will not feel any pain due to topical anaesthetic drops. You will not see any surgical instruments and you will focus your eyes on a special target that guarantees eye stability during surgery.
  • After laser treatment is completed, a protective lens will be placed on the eye.

After the procedure

  • You should not drive motor vehicles until you doctor approves of it.
  • Do not touch, press or rub your eyes.
  • You may feel some discomfort such as tearing, increased light sensitivity, moderate eye tenderness and grittiness.
  • During the first week you should avoid eye strain: limit your time working at the screen, watching TV or reading books.
  • Follow all postoperative instructions.
  • Use sunglasses when outside in the sun for about 3 months.

The first follow-up is performed about 15 minutes after the procedure; the whole visit may take approximately 1.5-2 hours. On the first few days after the procedure you should strictly follow your doctor’s instructions regarding medication and follow-up visits.

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+48 61 62 33 111

Wielkopolskie Centrum Medyczne
Sp z o.o. S.K.A

st. Bolesława Krzywoustego 114
61-144 Poznań, POLAND

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