Sclerotic scattering illumination during phototherapeutic keratectomy for better visualization of corneal opacities.

Abstract Purpose To report on a simple method to obtain a better view of corneal opacities during excimer laser phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK). Design An interventional case report. Method Phototherapeutic keratectomy was performed under sclerotic scattering illumination with a vitrectomy-endoilluminator at the limbus. Results During conventional PTK with diffuse illumination, the intraoperative observations of corneal opacities are not as good as that with a slit lamp. Conversely, subtle corneal opacities can be easily seen with sclerotic scattering illumination even under a surgical microscope. Conclusion The use of sclerotic scattering illumination during PTK is valuable, because it provides a better view of opacified tissues and avoids excessive ablation.