Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK) is a refractive surgical procedure that is used to correct astigmatism, and is one of the surgeries performed at the Lombardi Eye Clinic, headed by Dr. Massimo Lombardi. Dr. Lombardi has gained international recognition for the development of specialized keratoconus treatments.
The cornea of people who have astigmatism is shaped like a football. Astigmatic keratotomy eye surgery corrects astigmatism by making one or two incisions at the steepest part of the cornea. These incisions cause the cornea to relax and take a more rounded shape. It is often used in combination with other vision correction surgeries. Also LASIK and PRK (Excimer Laser surgeries) can be successfully applied today by Dr. Lombardi and his équipe.
The ideal refractive surgical procedure is simple to perform, inexpensive, and applicable to a wide range of ametropias. Astigmatic keratotomy (AK) fits these criteria in many ways. It can be useful for numerous refractive problems, including congenital astigmatism, astigmatism with a cataract, post-traumatic astigmatism, and astigmatism after corneal transplantation. Even with excimer laser vision correction (eg, photorefractive keratoplasty [PRK], LASIK), AK can be a useful tool for many eyes.
To schedule a consultation regarding astigmatic keratotomy, please complete the on-line request form.