Authors
Dr. Anil Radhakrishnan, Senior Consultant, Cornea & Refractive Surgery, Chaithanya Eye Hospital, Trivandrum 695004
Abstract
Among the different refractive surgical procedures, LASIK [Laser in situ keratomileusis] is presently the most popular one with millions of procedures performed worldwide. Its predictability is better than other procedures, even in re-treatments. LASIK does not require removal of epithelium, respects Bowman’s membrane and thereby causes minimal keratocyte activation. Hence tissue reaction and disorganization of stromal collagen fibrils is minimal compared to older ablational procedures using the same laser like photorefractive keratectomy [PRK]. This article describes the rationale behind the procedure, its indications, contra indications, the operative technique and the after care needed.