LTK (Laser Thermokeratoplasty)
Laser thermokeratoplasty, or LTK, is a brand new procedure used to treat astigmatism and farsightedness.. During the procedure a laser beam uses small amount heat to shrink and reshape the cornea. Vision is corrected in a matter of seconds, without any cutting or removal of tissue.
Although highly effective in the short-term, the results of LTK are not permanent. To compensate for regression of vision, which occurs mostly during the first three months following surgery, the doctor will intentionally over correct the amount of correction your eyes need.
Who's a Candidate?
Due to its non-permanent effects, LTK is only performed in people over the age of 40 who are mildly farsighted. Other than age, the qualifications for this surgery are the same as the qualifications for refractive surgery.
What Should I Expect After Surgery?
After LTK surgery most doctors will schedule follow-up appointments for the next day as well as for one week, one month, and 2-6 months after the initial surgery. To prevent infection or any irritation that may occur, you will be given several antibiotic drops as well as anti-inflammatory drops to take for upto two week after the surgery.
It is non-permanent.
Many Patients experience temporary nearsightedness following the procedure since over-correction of vision is required to account for regression. Some patients may even need to wear glasses for a few weeks following LTK.
It is common for people who have had the LTK surgery to lose about half of the corrective effects within two years of the surgery.
What Are the Potential Side Effects of LTK?
Other than nearsightedness, you may also feel as if you have a foreign object in your eye, but this sensation should go away after the first day with the help of eye drops given to you by your doctor. You may also experience sensitivity to light the first day or so following the procedure, but pain or other discomfort is rarely associated with this procedure.
Little risk of infection or vision loss since the laser is the only thing that touches the eye during the procedure.
The procedure is very fast.
Little discomfort results from LTK and patients are often able to resume normal activities the following day.
What Are the Disadvantages of LTK?
The disadvantages of LTK include:
How Should I Prepare for Surgery?
Before your surgery you will have met with a coordinator who will discuss with you what you should expect during and after the surgery. During this session your medical history will be evaluated as well as have your eyes tested. Likely tests will include measuring corneal thickness, refraction, and pupil dilation. Once you have gone through your evaluation, you will meet the surgeon, who will answer any further questions you may have. Afterwards, you can schedule an appointment for the procedure.
On the day of your surgery, eat a light meal before coming and take all of your prescribed medications. Do not wear eye makeup or have any bulky accessories in your hair that will interfere with positioning your head under the laser. If you are not feeling well that morning, call the doctor’s office to determine whether the procedure needs to be postponed.
What Happens During the Procedure?
This procedure is done under a local anesthesia. During the procedure a laser beam uses heat to shrink and reshape the cornea. Vision is corrected in a matter of seconds, without any cutting or removal of tissue
As previously mentioned, for the first week after surgery it is common to experience nearsightedness, however as the regression slows your distance vision will improve considerably. From the end of the first week to 3 months following surgery, you should expect some fluctuations of vision.
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