PURPOSE: To describe small spot phototherapeutic keratectomy (PTK) using the NIDEK EC-5000 excimer laser for the treatment of recurrent corneal erosion. METHODS: This retrospective study analyzed patients with recurrent comeal erosion who were treated using small spot PTK. An electronic medical records database was used to retrieve patient data. RESULTS: Ten consecutive eyes in nine patients were evaluated after small spot PTK. Eight (80%) recovered without further erosion. CONCLUSIONS: Small spot PTK is a safe and effective alternative to traditional PTK and to corneal micropuncture in the treatment of recurrent corneal erosion.