Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy.

Excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) is an important tool in the management of superficial corneal pathology. It works well in the treatment of anterior corneal dystrophies and degenerations, but we are learning that it may have a role in the treatment of certain patients with deeper corneal pathology. Indications also are being expanded to treat much less common conditions and also to treat children. Irregular astigmatism, which is not treated very well with current PTK techniques, may be addressed better with newer approaches, such as selective zonal ablation and the use of BioMask. As current PTK techniques are improved and newer methods are developed, this procedure will continue to be an excellent option for certain patients with superficial corneal problems.