PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY Meaning and
Definition
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Photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) is a surgical procedure designed to correct refractive errors in the eyes, primarily nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), and astigmatism. It is a type of laser eye surgery that reshapes the cornea to improve the eye's ability to focus, resulting in clearer vision.
During PRK, the surgeon uses a laser, typically an excimer laser, to remove a thin layer of the cornea's surface epithelium. This exposes the stroma, the underlying layer of the cornea, which is then sculpted by the laser to modify its shape and correct the refractive errors. The laser precisely ablates the corneal tissue to flatten the cornea in myopia, steepen it in hyperopia, or smoothen it in astigmatism, based on the individual's specific needs.
Following the surgery, a soft contact lens or protective bandage is placed on the eye to facilitate healing and protect the cornea. As the epithelium grows back, which typically takes a few days to a week, the cornea gradually stabilizes and vision improves.
Photorefractive keratectomy is a popular alternative to other laser vision correction procedures like LASIK, especially for patients with thinner corneas or those who are not suitable candidates for the creation of a corneal flap. It is a safe and effective procedure, though it might involve a longer recovery time compared to LASIK. Patients should consult with an ophthalmologist or refractive surgeon to determine if PRK is the best course of treatment for their particular eye condition.
Etymology of PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY
The word "photorefractive keratectomy" (PRK) has its roots in Greek and Latin.
1. "Photo-" comes from the Greek word "phos" (φῶς), meaning "light".
2. "Refractive" is derived from the Latin word "refractus", which means "broken" or "bent".
3. "Keratectomy" is composed of two Greek terms: "kerat-" (κεράτ-) referring to the cornea and "-ektomē" (-εκτομή) meaning "excision" or "removal".
Therefore, the word "photorefractive keratectomy" combines these elements to describe a surgical procedure that uses light to reshape the cornea for vision correction.
