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NR. 3(II)/2004
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Modern Surface
Ablation Techniques
Chris P. Lohmann MD PhD
Universitäts-Augenklinik, Germany |
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| Summary: |
During the evolution of
surgical techniques, the manner in which excimer laser
energy is applied to reshape the cornea has undergone
major changes since the introduction of photorefractive
keratectomy (PRK) (1,2). PRK was eclipsed by laser in
situ keratomileusis (LASIK), a technique which has
rapidly became the dominant laser keratorefractive
procedure mainly because of the advantages of fast
visual rehabilitation and less pain during the early
postoperative period (3). Recently, two new surface
ablation techniques (a) alcohol assisted laser
subepithelial keratomileusis (LASEK), which has been
introduced independently by Dimitri Azar (4) and Massimo
Camelin (5), and (b) Epi-LASIK by Ioannis Pallikaris (6)
has gained sufficient interest among ophthalmologists
and the general public. This paper will cover the basic
techniques, the current results and side effects on
these 3 modern surface ablation techniques. Modern
surface ablation techniques or „ASA-T” show enormously
improved postoperative results and patient comfort
compared to traditional PRK. |
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| Key words: |
Epi-LASIK, PRK, LASEK,
haze, bandage contact lens. |
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