PTK (phototherapeutic keratectomy) is a procedure which is generally performed to treat a variety of diseases of the cornea, rather than to correct refractive error. PTK can be used to treat superficial scars, corneal degenerations, dystrophies and corneal irregularities and is a much less invasive procedure than corneal transplantation. In PTK, the surface layer of the cornea (the epithelium) is either removed manually or using the Schwind Amaris 1050RS Excimer laser. Deeper treatments can remove scarring and other opacities and lead to a smoothing of the corneal surface. PTK can also be combined with refractive treatments when appropriate. Frequently, a bandage soft contact lens is placed on the eye to assist epithelial healing This contact lens is usually removed after 2-4 days at your post-operative appointment. In some conditions (e.g. recurrent corneal erosion syndrome) the contact lens may be left in place a little longer.
Medicare and health insurance rebates may be available for PTK procedures.
