What does PRK stand for?

The acronym PRK stands for Photorefractive Keratectomy. This is a type of refractive eye surgery aimed at correcting vision issues such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. During the procedure, an excimer laser is used to reshape the cornea, which improves the eye's ability to focus light onto the retina, ultimately enhancing vision.

The process of PRK involves removing a thin layer of corneal epithelium to expose the corneal tissue underneath, where the laser treatment is applied. This procedure has gained popularity due to its effectiveness and the fact that it often leads to quicker recovery times compared to other refractive surgeries like LASIK.

Understanding the term "photorefractive" is key, as it implies the use of light (laser) to alter the refractive properties of the cornea, which is central to the technique's purpose. This contrasts with other terms that may sound similar but refer to different procedures or concepts related to eye surgery.