Other Vision Correction Treatments

The evolution of vision correction has provided a range of options that can improve the sight of patients with various problems and needs. Learn more your vision correction options, including automated lamellar keratoplasty, radial keratotomy, astigmatic keratotomy, and laser thermal keratoplasty.

Automated Lamellar Keratoplasty (ALK)

Automated lamellar keratoplasty, or ALK, involves the use of a microkeratome to reshape the cornea and produce clearer vision. ALK is used to treat large degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness). During the procedure, the surgeon uses the microkeratome to create a flap on the outer portion of the cornea and then removes a small disc of corneal tissue. This procedure is different from both LASIK and PRK in that a laser is not used. The results of this procedure are sometimes unpredictable, and automated lamellar keratoplasty is rarely performed anymore due to the advent of safer and more effective procedures.

Radial Keratotomy (RK)

Radial keratotomy, or RK, was the precursor to more recent refractive surgery procedures like PRK and LASIK. It was developed by a Russian ophthalmologist and is used to treat myopia. It involves the use of a small blade to make four to eight spoke-like incisions on the outer portion of the cornea, causing the cornea to flatten. Although the refractive change is usually more difficult to predict than with other vision correction methods, RK may be an alternative for patients who are not good LASIK candidates. Radial keratotomy causes more discomfort and requires a longer healing period than LASIK or PRK.

Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK)

Astigmatic keratotomy, or AK, is used to treat pronounced astigmatism. Similar to radial keratotomy, small incisions are used to change the shape of the cornea. However, unlike RK, the incisions are placed only on the steepest part of the eye. These incisions allow the eye to become more spherical, which means that light can focus more precisely on the retina. Astigmatic keratotomy can be performed alone or in conjunction with other vision correction procedures such as cataract surgery.

Laser Thermal Keratoplasty (LTK)

Laser thermal keratoplasty, or LTK, is used to treat both hyperopia (farsightedness) and astigmatism in patients over the age of 40. In the LTK procedure, a laser is used to heat up a circular section of the cornea surrounding the pupil. The collagen in the eye contracts, causing the cornea to steepen; this allows light to focus normally on the retina. Because other methods of vision correction have more permanent effects, laser thermal keratoplasty is rarely used.

Locate an Ophthalmologist for More Information

To find out if you would be a good candidate for automated lamellar keratoplasty, radial keratotomy, astigmatic keratotomy, laser thermal keratoplasty, or another form of vision correction, it is recommended that you consult with a trained eye surgeon. You can find a qualified surgeon in your area by using our online directory.