During PRK for an -8.0 D myope, the surgeon applies a sponge soaked in 0.02% mitomycin C to the ablated stromal bed for 12 seconds. The primary purpose of this step is:
- A Prevent stromal haze by inhibiting keratocyte proliferation ✓
- B Accelerate re-epithelialisation
- C Reduce postoperative pain
- D Enhance the accuracy of the ablation
Correct answer: A. Prevent stromal haze by inhibiting keratocyte proliferation
Explanation
Mitomycin C is an alkylating agent that inhibits DNA synthesis in activated keratocytes and fibroblasts. After high corrections, deep ablations expose more stroma and trigger excessive wound healing, producing subepithelial stromal haze and regression. Intraoperative application of 0.02% mitomycin C suppresses this proliferative response and reduces haze. It does not alter the laser ablation itself, speed epithelial healing, or reduce pain, which requires a bandage contact lens.
Reference: Yanoff and Duker, Ophthalmology, 5th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.