PTK - Phototherapeutic Keratectomy Europe

This procedure is usually carried out under topical (surface) anaesthesia. Once the epithelium is removed, the patient actively co-operates by having to follow a fixed point. Only with eccentric or peripheral lesions, the surgeon must manually turn the head or the eye of the patient or possibly use a joystick to place the laser beam in the desired spot. PTK is carried out using an excimer laser (193 nm) and uses the principle of photoablation – the interruption of the connection between molecules. A single pulse of the laser removes exactly 0.25 micrometres of corneal tissue. In this way, we have the option to plan ahead the exact desired change of the shape and ensure that the treated surface will be smooth and regular – this will improve the visual result. In the case of treatment of Recurrent Corneal Erosion, the aim is to reach a diametrically neutral result – meaning keeping the original dioptres. In such a case, the depth of the ablation on the entire surface, in the range of 6–9 millimetres, is only some 5–6 µm. If the cornea is otherwise healthy, it is possible to combine the therapeutic effect of PTK also with improved refraction. In such a case we are talking about carrying out PRK as PTK. In this way, it is possible to eliminate myopia, possibly also myopia combined with astigmatism. After the procedure, we cover the surface of the cornea with a contact lens so that the pain is minimised. The pain following this type of surgery may be very intense in the first 2–3 days post-surgery. We keep the contact lens in the eye for the duration of 2–4 weeks. The patient must, at the same time, apply antibiotic eyedrops. Once the contact lens is removed, the regular steps of preventing the formation of erosion apply – application of lubricants.

The examination includes complete anamnesis as well as eyesight anamnesis, establishing the exact dioptre error (manifest refraction), a detailed examination of the frontal segment of the eye, measuring of the intraocular pressure as well as the Schirmer test. Examination of the rear of the eye follows. To carry out a thorough examination of the rear of the eye it is essential to dilate the pupils by administering special eye drops. As a result, we can also examine the periphery of the retina (this is important, especially in patients with myopia) and measure the values of the so-called cycloplegic refraction (as these values may differ from the values obtained when the eye is not dilated). This process minimises the risk of miscalculation. A part of the initial examination is also a check-up using the PENTACAM and iDESIGN devices. These provide readings essential for the surgeon to determine the suitability of the patient for laser eye surgery. We always carry out the initial eye examination prior to laser eye surgery on a different day than the actual surgery. This is the only way to ensure optimal post-surgery results.

IDESIGN iLASIK is the safest and most precise laser eye surgery method used for the removal of short-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. It uses technology certified by NASA, meaning that it complies with the strictest safety criteria. iDESIGN iLASIK uses advanced and tested technology throughout the procedure and as such ensures a 100% tailor-made procedure. It is this individualisation, in particular, that differentiates this method. During the initial examination, part of which is the iDESIGN device, we immediately, in a single instant, acquire complex results of the five basic parameters of the eye. This data is as unique as a fingerprint. Based on these results, we are in a position to propose a tailor-made and transfer this plan into the memory of the VISX STAR S4 I laser. The laser then carries out the required changes to the curvature of the cornea with absolute precision. The surgery is carried out under local anaesthesia applied through eye drops. Throughout the surgery, the patient is fully conscious, however, registers no pain. The entire procedure lasts only a few minutes. The recuperation is very quick and the return to improved vision functions is fast. Who is this method meant for? Especially patients suffering from one of the following: Short-sightedness (low, medium and high)Far-sightedness (up to +4,0 dioptres)Astigmatism (maxim up to +/−4,5 dioptres)A higher degree of irregular astigmatismIn cases where the required post-surgery vision exceeds 100%