Can you tell me more about PCK? I have scarring of the cornea from an infection and my dr mentioned it as a last type of possibility. Is it very commonly done? Fairly new?

PTK (photoherapeutic keratectomy)is a procedure where the excimer laser is used to remove a corneal scar. As long as the corneal scar is not too deep, this methoid can be very effective. It does, however, often make a person either less near-sighted or more far-sighted. So some patients may require contact lenses after the procedure.
I have performed many of these procedures, and my patients have been very happy with the results. However, some patients with corneal scars were not eligible for PRK due to having scars that were too deep or having scars caused by herpes (herpes can activate after PTK, and cause an ever worse situation).
Eugene Gabianelli, MD is a specialist in Georgia, and may be ble to help answer your questions further about PTK. He is located in Atlanta ()

I hope this is helpful

Bill Trattler, MD
Miami, FL