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CORRECTION OF REFRACTIVE
ERROR
RK and AK
Radial (RK)
and Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK):
These techniques involve creating deep incisions (90%) in the
corneal surface to alter the shape of the cornea. RK is used to correct myopia.
Click on the
picture to see full size.
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Usually 4-8 Radial
or spoke-like incisions are made in the cornea, resulting in
a flatter cornea with decreased power. |
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In AK,
the incisions are made in the axis of the cornea with the greatest
astigmatism. |
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RK has become less popular
since the approval of the excimer laser. AK is still used in
conjunction with laser vision correction techniques to touch
up the initial result. Incisional techniques weaken the cornea
and may make it more susceptible to trauma. |
