Introduction
The anterior ocular surface is a highly dynamic and sensitive structure that is always in contact with the environment. When it is disrupted, difficult-to-treat diseases occur, leading to reduced vision and a poor quality of life. Phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is considered a bridge between medical and surgical treatment of various corneal diseases. Additional treatment with autologous serum eye drops can support the re-epithelialization process and reduce subjective complaints before and after the procedure.
Aim
The aim of the present study is to investigate the efficacy of PTK in combination with the use of autologous serum drops in patients with pathological changes in the cornea who underwent treatment at the University Specialized Eye Hospital in Varna.
Materials and Methods
Fifteen patients (20 eyes) underwent PTK due to pathological changes in the cornea. Patients completed OSDI questionnaires before the procedure. After the procedure, autologous serum eye drops were applied 5 times a day for 6 weeks, at a concentration of 20% and in combination with a therapeutic contact lens. Postoperative results and subjective complaints of the patients were assessed using the included questionnaires.
Results
The mean age of the studied patients was 45.6 years. Sixteen out of twenty eyes (80%) recovered without additional corneal erosion. Three eyes had 1 additional erosion, which in 2 cases was treatable with autologous serum eye drops without additional treatment with an excimer laser. In one patient, the observed recurrence required the placement of an amniotic membrane.
Conclusion
Phototherapeutic keratectomy is a safe and effective therapy. In combined treatment with autologous serum eye drops, the re-epithelialization process is faster, and subjective complaints before and after the procedure are reduced.
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