radial keratotomy (RK), a surgical procedure in which a series of tiny shallow incisions is made in the cornea to flatten it, thereby reducing refractive error. The operation is performed using local anesthesia and requires only 10 minutes. Hospitalization is not necessary. Radial keratotomy usually corrects mild to moderate myopia. Compare photorefractive keratectomy. See also refractive keratotomy.
