EBKTM (Epithelial Bowman’s Keratectomy) is one of the methods of
laser vision correction
, in which corneal reshaping is possible. It belongs to the so-called. surface methods. This means that the epithelium from the surface of the cornea is gently removed so that the laser can then correct the vision defect. The process of corneal shape correction is carried out using an excimer laser.
In superficial methods, the removed epithelium undergoes natural recovery after the procedure. Surface methods are characterized by a slightly longer healing time and a smaller extent of defect removal than in deep methods. Epithelial regeneration occurs 3-4 days after the procedure. To speed it up and reduce the pain accompanying the healing of the eye, a dressing contact lens is inserted after the procedure
EBK is a modification of the LASEK and PRK methods. The epithelium is precisely removed with an Epi-Clear knife, which gently and in a fully controlled manner prepares the cornea for the procedure, leaving its deeper layers intact. Compared to other surface methods, the epithelium regenerates up to twice as fast after EBK, and the regeneration process is smoother than in other surface methods. The EBK method is the first choice method for a relatively small group of patients. The range of corrected defects is small: from -8 D to +3 D, astigmatism up to 5 D, with the procedure dedicated primarily to people with thin but normal corneas. EBK can be used when the patient has deep eye sockets, narrow eyelid crevices, or abnormally flat or steep corneas. It can be performed in patients with recurrent erosions and epithelial basement membrane degeneration, as well as those with a clear contraindication to LASIK-type methods (LASIK, FEMTOLASIK, VLASIK®).
The EBK method is recommended for people at risk of eye injuries (e.g., police officers, soldiers, firefighters, people who participate in contact sports).