Kelly Eye Center

Radial Keratotomy (RK)

Free Refractive Screening Radial Keratotomy (RK) is a surgical procedure which consists of making fine microscopic incisions into the cornea. The goal of the procedure is to reshape the cornea to allow better focused vision. RK is typically used to reduce nearsightedness and to also correct certain levels of astigmatism. RK was one of the first forms of refractive procedures used to improve vision, but since its introduction, radial keratotomy has continued to be refined. Significant improvements have included the development of extremely precise diamond blades to make the incisions and highly accurate instruments to measure the depth of the blade and the thickness of the cornea. These improvements are used to increase the predictability of the procedure and limit complications.