What is TransPRK?
TransPRK stands for Transepithelial Photorefractive Keratectomy. It is the latest iteration of a technique called Advanced Surface Ablation. It is a single step laser ablation of the cornea removing the superficial epithelium and changing the stromal shape of the cornea using the excimer laser.
TransPRK should be used only in low to moderate refractive powers and is especially useful in cases with corneal scars and in enhancements of complicated cases.
| Advantages of TransPRK | Disadvantages of TransPRK |
|---|---|
| No flap is created (LASIK) or lenticule removed (ReLEx® SMILE) | Initial vision after surgery is slightly hazy |
| Relatively quick surgery time | Slower visual recovery compared to LASIK due to initial uneven corneal surface |
| Simpler operation than LASIK and ReLEx® SMILE | Slower corneal healing as compared to LASIK due to the large ablation zone |
| Less prone to intraoperative complications | Slightly higher risk of postoperative infection, scarring and haze formation due to slower healing |
| Bigger and better transition zone which reduces the risk of regression, glare and halos | Refractive results not as good as Advanced Customised LASIK but similar to ReLEx® SMILE |
| Can be performed for those with corneal scars | Higher incidence of discomfort post-operation |
TransPRK can be also guided by corneal topography and corneal wavefront. Therefore, it can be customised similar to customised corneal wavefront-guided LASIK. Flash crosslinking is also offered to patients who are opting for TransPRK.
Dr Tan will discuss and recommend you the best option for the correction of your shortsightedness, hyperopia and astigmatism.
To find out more about TransPRK, click here.
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