Causes of PRK Surgery

Introduction

Photorefractive Keratectomy, commonly known as PRK, is a type of laser eye surgery designed to correct vision problems like myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. While PRK is generally safe and highly effective, understanding the causes or factors that lead to its need can help patients make informed decisions about their eye health and treatment options. Here will study about the causes of prk surgery

What is PRK?

PRK is a refractive surgery procedure that reshapes the cornea using an excimer laser to improve visual acuity. Unlike LASIK, PRK does not involve creating a corneal flap; instead, the surface layer of the cornea (epithelium) is removed and allowed to regenerate after the laser treatment. The procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with thin corneas or those unsuitable for LASIK.

Causes of PRK Surgery

1. Refractive Errors :- The primary reason individuals undergo PRK is to correct refractive errors, which occur when the eye cannot properly focus light on the retina. The main types of refractive errors include:

• Myopia (Nearsightedness): Objects at a distance appear blurry because light focuses in front of the retina. PRK reshapes the cornea to allow light to focus correctly on the retina.
• Hyperopia (Farsightedness): Nearby objects appear blurry as light focuses behind the retina. PRK adjusts the corneal curvature to improve near vision.
• Astigmatism: Irregular corneal curvature causes distorted or blurred vision at all distances. PRK smooths the cornea to correct the irregularities. Refractive errors are often hereditary, but environmental factors like prolonged screen time, poor lighting conditions, and eye strain can worsen vision problems over time.

2. Thin Corneas or Unsuitable LASIK Candidates :- Not everyone can undergo LASIK surgery. LASIK involves creating a flap in the cornea, which requires sufficient corneal thickness. Patients with thin corneas, irregular corneal shape, or certain corneal diseases are at a higher risk of complications with LASIK. PRK is often recommended as an alternative because it reshapes the surface of the cornea without requiring a flap. This makes it safer for those with thin corneas or corneal surface irregularities.
3. Eye Injuries or Trauma :- Eye trauma can sometimes lead to permanent vision issues that cannot be corrected effectively with glasses or contact lenses. Injuries may cause corneal scarring, irregularities, or changes in corneal shape, which can result in blurred vision. In such cases, PRK can help restore proper light focus on the retina by reshaping the cornea and compensating for irregularities caused by trauma.

4. Progressive Vision Problem :- Some people experience progressive vision deterioration over time due to age, lifestyle, or underlying conditions. Myopia progression in adolescents and young adults is common, especially among those who spend extensive hours on computers, smartphones, or other near-vision tasks. PRK provides a permanent correction for progressive vision problems, reducing dependency on corrective lenses. Unlike temporary solutions such as glasses or contacts, PRK can provide long-term improvement in visual clarity.

5. Corneal Irregularities :- Certain corneal conditions, like keratoconus, corneal scars, or irregular astigmatism, can prevent light from focusing properly on the retina. While PRK is not suitable for advanced keratoconus, it can be effective for mild cases or other surface irregularities. The excimer laser used in PRK precisely removes corneal tissue, creating a smoother corneal surface and improving overall vision. Patients with mild corneal irregularities who are unsuitable for LASIK often find PRK to be a safer option.

6. Lifestyle and Occupational Requirements :- Some professions and activities require sharp, uncorrected vision. Pilots, military personnel, athletes, and law enforcement officers often prefer laser vision correction to eliminate dependency on glasses or contact lenses. PRK can be the ideal solution for such individuals, especially those with thin corneas or those exposed to high-impact environments where LASIK flaps may pose a risk.

7. Other Contributing Factors :- Several additional factors may contribute to the decision to undergo PRK:

• Dry eyes: LASIK can worsen dry eye symptoms in some patients, whereas PRK is generally less likely to exacerbate this condition.
• Age-related changes: Vision may deteriorate with age due to presbyopia, requiring corrective procedures to improve near vision.
• Patient preference: Some individuals prefer PRK over LASIK because it avoids flap-related complications, even if the recovery time is slightly longer.

Preparing for PRK

Before undergoing PRK, an ophthalmologist will evaluate your eye health, corneal thickness, and refractive error. Preoperative examinations include:

• Comprehensive eye exams
• Corneal topography to map corneal shape
• Evaluation of tear film and dry eye status
• Assessment of general health and suitability for surgery

Understanding the cause behind your vision issues helps the surgeon tailor the PRK procedure for optimal results and long-term visual clarity.

Conclusion

PRK is a safe and effective solution for individuals with refractive errors, thin corneas, or irregular corneal conditions. The main causes that lead patients to undergo PRK include myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, corneal irregularities, eye injuries, progressive vision problems, and lifestyle requirements.