Photorefractive keratectomy
Photorefractive keratectomy (pronunciation: /ˌfoʊtoʊrɪˈfræktɪv ˌkɛrəˈtɛktəmi/) is a type of refractive surgery used to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. This procedure was first performed in the late 1980s and is considered a precursor to the more commonly known LASIK surgery.
Etymology
The term "photorefractive keratectomy" is derived from the Greek words phōs (light), refraktos (broken up), and ektome (excision). It refers to the use of light to reshape the cornea by removing tissue.
Procedure
Photorefractive keratectomy involves the use of a Excimer laser to remove a small amount of tissue from the cornea. This reshapes the cornea and changes its refractive power, improving the eye's ability to focus light onto the retina. The procedure is typically performed under local anesthesia and takes about 10 minutes.
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.
- Excimer laser: A form of ultraviolet laser which is commonly used in eye surgeries.
- Cornea: The transparent front part of the eye that covers the iris, pupil, and anterior chamber.
- Retina: A thin layer of tissue that lines the back of the eye on the inside and is responsible for vision.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Photorefractive keratectomy
- Wikipedia's article - Photorefractive keratectomy
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