Superficial keratectomy

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Superficial keratectomy (SK), also known as "Super K" or "corneal epithelial debridement", is an ophthalmic surgical procedure takes place on the surface of the cornea to remove irregularities or scars. [1]

Contents

SK involves removing the epithelial layer of the cornea leaving the bowman's membrane undisturbed. Often, the bowman's layer is polished and smoothed with a diamond tip burr or laser which encourages anchoring of the new epithelium as it grows back. [2] Many doctors will use the antibiotic Mitomycin or an amniotic membrane transplant to improve surgical outcomes. [1]

Common conditions that require SK

Complications

There are a few risks to consider before preforming or receiving SK. Although SK is considered a low risk procedure, some patients will experience complications such as: [1]

References

  1. 1 2 3 Salari, Farhad; Beikmarzehei, Alireza; Liu, George; Zarei-Ghanavati, Mehran; Liu, Christopher (2022-07-06). "Superficial Keratectomy: A Review of Literature". Frontiers in Medicine. 9. doi: 10.3389/fmed.2022.915284 . ISSN   2296-858X. PMC   9299356 .
  2. Bae, Steven S.; Chan, Clara C. (December 2018). "Superficial keratectomy: indications and outcomes". Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology. Journal Canadien d'Ophtalmologie. 53 (6): 553–559. doi:10.1016/j.jcjo.2018.01.030. ISSN   1715-3360. PMID   30502977.
  3. Lin, Shawn Rong; Aldave, Anthony J.; Chodosh, James (September 2019). "Recurrent corneal erosion syndrome". The British Journal of Ophthalmology. 103 (9): 1204–1208. doi:10.1136/bjophthalmol-2019-313835. ISSN   1468-2079. PMID   30760455.
  4. "Superficial keratectomy for Salzmann's nodular degeneration: techniques and pointers". American Academy of Ophthalmology. 2013-10-18. Retrieved 2025-01-30.
  5. Jhanji, Vishal; Rapuano, Christopher J.; Vajpayee, Rasik B. (July 2011). "Corneal calcific band keratopathy". Current Opinion in Ophthalmology. 22 (4): 283–289. doi:10.1097/ICU.0b013e3283477d36. ISSN   1531-7021. PMID   21537183.