Photorefractive Keratectomy, or PRK, is one of the two major forms of laser eye treatment options for individuals with specific problems. This operation is often linked to LASIK, mainly because they are similar to each other in the sense that both aim to correct similar problems. There are certain criteria, though, that stand to help doctors choose which procedure may be more suitable for a certain individual.
The Procedure
PRK starts out with the patient being given local anesthetic in the affected area. The eyelids are held fast by an instrument that basically clamps them and prevents them from blinking.
Due to this, an attendant is at hand to rewet it when necessary. The entire operation lasts for just a few minutes, in reality. This form of laser treatment initially removes the outermost layer of the cornea before laser ablation of the next layer occurs.
There is little risk of the laser making a mistake with regards to ablation because it is attached to a computer that effectively tracks down eye movement and makes precise corrections to each movement. The tracking is dependent on how new and fast the laser is but even older lasers are good enough.
The epithelium of the cornea is actually removed during the procedure, encouraging growth and regeneration of the cornea. Although this means slower healing time compared to LASIK, it also means better chances of proper healing and less risk of side effects. This is because there is not much trauma to the structure of cornea as opposed to the LASIK treatment.
Recovery
Recovery period extends from several months to a year especially with regards to a halo effect or glare sensitivity to it. The overall pain and soreness that comes with the procedure basically goes away within a month, more or less.
Medication for the pain and for dry eyes is usually given initially but should be stopped when the pain ceases. Dry eyes problem may last longer, while in some cases become permanent. They are one of the more common problems of this laser treatment.
Doctors need to asses and consider several factors before opting for this form of treatment. The overall health, age of the individual, stability of refraction, size of the pupils and many others are to be considered before the operation. The procedure to be undertaken will then be a choice between LASIK and PRK.
Author Resource:-
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