What does astigmatism mean? 

Astigmatism is a visual refraction defect which neither fails the nearsighted vision not the farsighted vision. It may result from the deformity in the cornea layer, which is the frontmost layer of eye ball.

How is the Astigmatism treated? 

Non - surgical methods like glasses and contact lenses that are used in the treatment of astigmatism are insufficient for patients who has higher levels of visual defects. Usually the quality vision levels cannot be obtained by implementing such methods or the usage may be uncomfortable. Among the surgical treatment methods excimer laser treatment is the first option. But the structure of all eyes may not be convenient to the laser treatments. One of the methods developed for eyes not convenient to excimer laser treatment is the astigmatic keratotomy.

How is the Astigmatic Keratotomy implemented?

It is a very simple operation that is completed in very short time. The operation is conducted in sterile operating theatre environment. Small, stripe - like lacerations are made in the corneal layer of eyes. These lacerations are made by a special device. The nomograms pre - determined for each astigmatic diopter value are used in determining the lenght and depth of the lacerations. 

Will the astigmatism be completely cured after the operation?

This treatment method guaranties the success in astigmatics up to 4 diopter value. The main objective to be achieved by the treatment is the regress of the asticmatism. A second session may be required in certain cases or if the structure of cornea is convenient, the remaining part of the astigmatic defect may be cured with excimer laser.