Update on phototherapeutic keratectomy.
OBJECTIVE
To review all recent publications on the use of phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK).


RESULTS
Recent studies confirm the beneficial outcomes of PTK in a variety of anterior corneal disorder: anterior stromal scars, dystrophies of the corneal epithelium and the anterior stroma, and elevated corneal lesions. They also try to evaluate the biomechanical properties of eyes with granular corneal dystrophy undergoing PTK, in an effort to prevent iatrogenic ectasia. The different genotypes in patients with transforming growth factor, beta-induced linked corneal dystrophies have recently been correlated to the surgical outcome after PTK. An extensive review of recurrent corneal erosion syndrome identified PTK as the most effective treatment. In the developing world, the most common indication for PTK is still bullous keratopathy, as PTK can be successfully used while waiting for penetrating keratoplasty.


CONCLUSIONS
PTK can successfully treat a variety of conditions of the anterior cornea. New studies may further expand its use.
Stasi
Kalliopi
K
Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University, Lutherville, Maryland 21093, USA.
Chuck
Roy S
RS
D003315:Cornea / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D003316:Corneal Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D048988:Corneal Surgery, Laser / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004108:Dilatation, Pathologic / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D007049:Iatrogenic Disease / Q000517:prevention & control; D016896:Treatment Outcome; D014792:Visual Acuity