I'd like to find out more about radial keratotomy, including the "best" clinics to seek the surgery. I've heard it is not advisable that everyone undergo this surgery. My vision is about -3.75 in both eyes, can r.k. help me?
Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (reg@ofcn.org)
Radial keratotomy is a surgical procedure that corrects mild to moderate degrees of nearsightedness and astigmatism.
As with most surgical procedures, it is not always an issue of the best "clinic", as much as it is the best "surgeon". Radial keratotomy (RK) is a procedure that does not require a great deal of fancy equipment. The primary determinant of its success is the proper patient selection, and the quality and experience of the individual surgeon.
My personal bias is that RK is not advisable for most (if not all) individuals. I do not think that it is a reliable, consistent, and safe procedure at this time. Not all ophthalmologists share this opinion.
RK can correct nearsightedness in the range of -3.75. Prior to consideration of any surgical procedure, I would advise anyone to research both the good points and bad points of the operation, as well as the success and complication rate of the surgeon.
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Copyright, 1996. Richard E. Gans, M. D. All rights reserved.
Richard E. Gans, M. D.
Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
Medical Director, The Health and Wellness Center
OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic
Email: reg@ofcn.org
WWW: http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
Mail: 26900 Cedar Road Suite #108
Beachwood, OH USA 44122-1148
NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.
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