PRK - Photorefractive Keratectomy Czech Republic

The PRK method is the oldest refractive laser technique of all but, in some cases, it is still the best option available. In essence, this is correcting the curvature of the cornea, once the epithelium has been mechanically removed. Once the surface of the cornea has been desensitised using anaesthetic eye drops, and the epithelium has been removed (using a surgical instrument or a little brush) the laser procedure is carried out within the surface layers of the stroma. Because the epithelium forms a sort of natural shield, without which the eye becomes extremely vulnerable or even painful, the cornea must be covered using a contact lens after the procedure. The covering layer of the epithelium is regenerated relatively fast, over the course of the following few days, but even so, the healing process is often accompanied by pain and un-sharp vision. The unpleasant feelings associated with the surgery usually cease within the next 3 to 4 days. The definite healing of the cornea and complete vision stabilisation is largely individual but usually, this happens within the next few weeks or months. Optimal vision may be expected within one month or a little longer. This is why (unlike procedures of the LASIK type) we always carry out the surgery of one eye first and the surgery of the other eye is recommended to be completed within the next one to six months after the first one. We recommend this procedure to patients with one of the following: Short-sightedness and astigmatism (low dioptre error of up to −2,0 dioptres)Patients with cornea that is too thinAs a re-operation having undergone another procedure previously (with the possibility of an individualised procedure)

The examination includes complete anamnesis as well as eyesight anamnesis, establishing the exact dioptre error (manifest refraction), a detailed examination of the frontal segment of the eye, measuring of the intraocular pressure as well as the Schirmer test. Examination of the rear of the eye follows. To carry out a thorough examination of the rear of the eye it is essential to dilate the pupils by administering special eye drops. As a result, we can also examine the periphery of the retina (this is important, especially in patients with myopia) and measure the values of the so-called cycloplegic refraction (as these values may differ from the values obtained when the eye is not dilated). This process minimises the risk of miscalculation. A part of the initial examination is also a check-up using the PENTACAM and iDESIGN devices. These provide readings essential for the surgeon to determine the suitability of the patient for laser eye surgery. We always carry out the initial eye examination prior to laser eye surgery on a different day than the actual surgery. This is the only way to ensure optimal post-surgery results.

IDESIGN iLASIK is the safest and most precise laser eye surgery method used for the removal of short-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism. It uses technology certified by NASA, meaning that it complies with the strictest safety criteria. iDESIGN iLASIK uses advanced and tested technology throughout the procedure and as such ensures a 100% tailor-made procedure. It is this individualisation, in particular, that differentiates this method. During the initial examination, part of which is the iDESIGN device, we immediately, in a single instant, acquire complex results of the five basic parameters of the eye. This data is as unique as a fingerprint. Based on these results, we are in a position to propose a tailor-made and transfer this plan into the memory of the VISX STAR S4 I laser. The laser then carries out the required changes to the curvature of the cornea with absolute precision. The surgery is carried out under local anaesthesia applied through eye drops. Throughout the surgery, the patient is fully conscious, however, registers no pain. The entire procedure lasts only a few minutes. The recuperation is very quick and the return to improved vision functions is fast. Who is this method meant for? Especially patients suffering from one of the following: Short-sightedness (low, medium and high)Far-sightedness (up to +4,0 dioptres)Astigmatism (maxim up to +/−4,5 dioptres)A higher degree of irregular astigmatismIn cases where the required post-surgery vision exceeds 100%