Radial keratomy

Radial keratotomy was one of the earlier methods of treating shortsightedness. In this surgical process, shallow radial cuts are made into the cornea around the pupil. This makes the cornea more flat in the center with an outward bulge. Thus, the process of Radial keratotomy reconfigures the focal point of the eye so that distance vision gets corrected and the person is able to see distant objects sharper and clearer. The location of incisions and their numbers are determined by the degree of myopia present in the patient undergoing surgery.

Radial Keratotomy was first performed in Russia in the first half of nineteen seventies. Later, this surgical procedure was performed in the US in 1978.

Study reports on Radial keratotomy confirm that following a series of technical improvements and refinements, this type of surgery gradually became a cure for people with chronic myopic vision. Further, it is found that Radial keratotomy surgery yields reasonably predictable outcomes and results in stable corrected vision. Moreover, unlike any conventional Vision Correcting Surgery, this particular surgical process is reasonably safe and comfortable for the patient. The precision of cuts are quite impressive and advantageous due to the use of advanced diamond blades. The time of recovery and the healing progress is fast for most cases. Sometimes, people may suffer from mild discomforts like aching and throbbing of eyes, temporary pain and blurry vision. If you are having any of these problems in the post- surgical period, see an experienced ophthalmologist immediately. An eye drop is suggested for use to prevent the occurrence of any kind of infection or inflammation.

In normal cases, Radial Keratotomy results in

·    20/40 or better uncorrected vision (in 99% of cases)

·    20/25 or better uncorrected vision (in 86% of cases).

·    20/20 or better vision in 50% of cases

·    Decrease in the degree of hyperopia ( to the extent of 1 D on an average)

·    Less dependence on contact lenses and spectacles after the surgery

Radial Keratotomy can sometimes lead to certain complications such as glare, starburst, double vision, frequent fluctuations in vision and in a few cases, diminishing visual strength. Increased risk of having an irregular astigmatism and corneal scarring are also reported in some cases.

Enhancement procedures are often recommended when patients have undertaken multiple surgeries prior to Radial Keratotomy.