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Radial
keratotomy and LASIK
Radial
keratotomy is a refractive surgery procedure where the surgeon makes
a spoke-like pattern of incisions into the cornea to modify its shape.
This early surgical option for myopia has been largely superseded by
LASIK and other similar procedures. Unfortunately, LASIK cannot be used
for people with keratoconus because removal of corneal tissue can further
damage their already weakened corneas. In Germany, for example, performing
laser treatment on kerataconus patients is illegal.
For similar reasons, radial keratotomy has also
generally not been used for keratoconic patients. However, an Italian
clinic has reported some success with a modified asymmetric radial keratotomy
procedure, in which the incisions are confined to one sector of the
eye. The corneal thickness is first measured using a pachymeter, then
the surgeon makes cuts to a depth of 70-80% of the measured thickness.
The patient may initially experience photophobia and fluctuation of
vision after radial keratotomy, just as with other forms of refractive
surgery.
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