Therapeutic Eye Surgery
Understanding Therapeutic Eye Surgery: A Straightforward Guide
- Recurrent corneal erosions
- Bullous keratopathy
- Corneal ectasia (e.g., keratoconus)
Phototherapeutic Keratectomy (PTK)
PTK is a procedure in which the corneal surface layer is removed, and the excimer laser then treats the corneal tissue underneath. At the end of the procedure, prescription eye drops are instilled, and a bandage contact lens is placed on the eye to promote healing.
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL)
Cross-linking for corneal ectasia is performed in a similar way to PTK. After the epithelium is removed, the eye is soaked in riboflavin (vitamin B2) solution for 15–20 minutes, followed by controlled UV light exposure to strengthen the corneal collagen layers. Prescription eye drops are instilled, and a bandage contact lens is placed on the eye.
Recovery
The recovery process is similar for both PTK and cross-linking. Patients typically experience significant discomfort for the first three days, often described as a sensation similar to “cutting onions continuously for 72 hours.” This discomfort gradually improves as the corneal surface heals. The important thing is that if the contact lens falls out, you do not put it back as this will result in an eye infection.