An arc-shaped incision in the cornea used to correct astigmatism is called what?

Prepare for the VisionFirst CEBT Test. Utilize flashcards and multiple-choice quizzes, each offering hints and detailed explanations for optimized learning. Excel in your exam!

Multiple Choice

An arc-shaped incision in the cornea used to correct astigmatism is called what?

Arcuate keratotomy is a procedure that uses arc-shaped incisions in the cornea to reduce astigmatism. By curling the incisions along the steep meridian, the cornea flattens in that direction, which lowers the cylindrical error and smooths out the uneven curvature causing astigmatism. This targeted arc approach is different from radial keratotomy, which relies on straight, radial cuts from the center and was used mainly for myopia with variable astigmatism. Laser-based procedures like LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy reshape the cornea with removal or ablation of tissue rather than incisions. The defining arc shape and its effect on corneal curvature make arcuate keratotomy the correct description for this technique.

Arcuate keratotomy is a procedure that uses arc-shaped incisions in the cornea to reduce astigmatism. By curling the incisions along the steep meridian, the cornea flattens in that direction, which lowers the cylindrical error and smooths out the uneven curvature causing astigmatism. This targeted arc approach is different from radial keratotomy, which relies on straight, radial cuts from the center and was used mainly for myopia with variable astigmatism. Laser-based procedures like LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy reshape the cornea with removal or ablation of tissue rather than incisions. The defining arc shape and its effect on corneal curvature make arcuate keratotomy the correct description for this technique.

More practice questions