The refractive surgery known as Photorefractive Keratectomy (PRK) addresses vision issues like myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Streamlight Trans-PRK, also known as No-touch Trans-PRK or Advanced Surface Ablation (ASA), is an advanced version of streamlight PRK that offers a more efficient and comfortable way of treating vision problems. In this article, we will take you through the step-by-step process of how Streamlight Trans-PRK works.
What is Streamlight Trans-PRK?
Streamlight Trans-PRK is a laser vision correction procedure that uses a cool ultraviolet beam to reshape the cornea, improving how light enters the eye. It is a no-touch, bladeless procedure, which eliminates the need for a surgical blade, making the process more comfortable and reducing the risk of complications.
How Streamlight Trans-PRK differs from traditional PRK?
Traditional PRK involves removing the corneal epithelium, the cornea’s outermost layer, before reshaping the cornea with a laser. The epithelial layer then grows back over the cornea, healing the eye. Streamlight Trans-PRK uses a specialised laser that removes the corneal epithelium and the corneal ablation in a single step. This eliminates the need for a surgical blade and reduces the time and discomfort associated with epithelial removal.
Advantages of Streamlight Trans-PRK
Streamlight Trans-PRK offers several advantages over traditional PRK, including:
- No surgical blade required
- Shorter procedure time
- Less discomfort during the procedure
- Reduced risk of complications
- Faster healing time
- Suitable for patients with thin corneas or irregular corneal shape
Step-by-step Process of Streamlight Trans-PRK
Eye examination and preparation
Before the procedure, your eye doctor will thoroughly examine your eyes to ensure you are a good candidate for Streamlight Trans-PRK. If you are eligible for the procedure, your doctor will give you instructions on preparing for the surgery.
Anaesthetic drops
On the day of the procedure, you will be given anaesthetic eye drops to numb the surface of your eye. These drops will help ensure you feel no pain during the process.
Epithelial removal
The surgeon will then use a specialised laser to remove the outermost layer of the cornea, the corneal epithelium. This step is painless and takes only a few seconds.
Corneal ablation
Once the epithelium has been removed, the surgeon will use the same laser to reshape the cornea by removing small amounts of tissue. This step takes only a few minutes, depending on the severity of your vision problem.
Protective bandage contact lens
After the corneal ablation, a protective bandage contact lens will be placed over your eye to promote healing and moisten the eye. Your doctor will remove this lens after a few days.
Aftercare instructions
Your surgeon will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, including how to use prescription eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing. You must also avoid rubbing your eyes and engaging in activities that may strain your eyes, such as swimming, for a few weeks after the procedure.
Recovery time after Streamlight Trans-PRK
The recovery time after Streamlight Trans-PRK varies from person to person, but most patients experience improved vision within a few days to a week after the procedure. However, it can take several weeks or even months for your vision to stabilise fully. Your surgeon will monitor your progress during follow-up visits to ensure your eyes heal correctly.
Conclusion
Streamlight Trans-PRK is a bladeless and no-touch laser vision correction procedure that offers several advantages over traditional PRK. The procedure is efficient, comfortable, and safe, with a shorter recovery time than other refractive surgeries. If you are considering Streamlight Trans-PRK to correct your vision, talk to your eye doctor to determine if you are a good candidate.
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