REFRACTIVE SURGERY Meaning and
Definition
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Refractive surgery refers to a branch of medical procedures designed to correct or enhance a person's vision by altering the refractive properties of the eye. The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce or eliminate the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses in individuals who have refractive errors, such as nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, or presbyopia.
The most commonly performed type of refractive surgery is laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). During LASIK, a thin flap is created on the cornea, and a laser is used to reshape the underlying tissue, correcting the refractive errors. Other refractive surgeries include photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), where the laser reshapes the cornea without creating a flap, and implantable contact lens (ICL) surgery, where a lens is inserted into the eye to correct the vision.
Refractive surgery is typically performed on an outpatient basis and is considered safe and effective for many individuals. However, it is essential for potential candidates to undergo a thorough preoperative evaluation to ensure they are suitable candidates for the procedure. Factors such as age, eye health, and stability of the refractive error must be taken into account.
While refractive surgery can significantly improve the visual acuity and quality of life for many individuals, it is not without potential risks and complications. These may include dry eyes, glare, halos, overcorrection or undercorrection of the vision, infection, or complications during the healing process. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals considering refractive surgery to consult with an experienced ophthalmologist or refractive surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment option and to have realistic expectations regarding the outcome.
Etymology of REFRACTIVE SURGERY
The word "refractive surgery" originated from the combination of two terms:
1. "Refractive": The term "refractive" comes from the Latin word "refractus", which is the past participle of "refringere". "Re-" means "back" or "again", and "fringere" means "to break". When applied to optics, "refract" means the bending or change in direction of light as it passes from one medium to another, such as from air to water or from air to the cornea of the eye.
2. "Surgery": The term "surgery" comes from the Latin word "chirurgia", which is derived from the Greek word "kheirourgia". "Kheir" means "hand", and "ergon" means "work".
