LASEK

LASEK

A surgical procedure on the cornea aimed at correcting ametropia. An alcohol solution is applied to the cornea (usually for less than 30 seconds) to loosen the epithelium. A trephine is used to make an incision in the epithelium leaving a hinge of 2-3 clock hours of intact margin. The loosened edges of the epithelium are lifted along the trephine mark and the epithelium is folded or rolled back exposing Bowman's layer. Excimer laser ablation is then performed on the anterior stromal surface and Bowman's layer is ablated away over the treatment area. The epithelial flap is repositioned and a bandage soft contact lens is worn for 3-4 days to minimize discomfort and to protect the epithelium. The method is less invasive than LASIK and appears to give rise to fewer complications. LASEK is an acronym made from the following italic letters 'laser assisted epithelial keratomileusis'. See photorefractive keratectomy; pachometer.