Lasik Developments

New Developments in Lasik Lasers

The lasers used in Lasik eye surgery represent some of the most astounding developments in technology. 

The marvels of modern medicine are represented in these lasers. The precision and sensitivity has restored vision to millions in less than a decade.

.....................Not all lasers, however, are created equally.  The FDA approves each type of laser for certain procedures. There is no Lasik laser, or model, that is suitable for all surgeries.

The greatest difference between most of these lasers is the way they deliver the beam to the eye and track the eye's movement, and the cut pattern. 

The cleaner, narrower, cut creates less post surgery complications, and increases the patient's chances of enjoying 20/20 vision.

There are two broad categories of lasers, broad beam and scanning. 

Within the scanning categories, there are two subcategories:  slit scanning, spot scanning.

Broad-Beam Lasers

Broad-beam lasers utilize a beam diameter ranging from 6 to 8 millimeters to cut the cornea.  Use of these lasers generally shortens the amount of time necessary to complete the procedure. However, they may decrease the success rate by making it more difficult to seamlessly return the flap, and fill in the hole.

 On the other hand, these lasers reduce the risk of overcorrection due to pupil movement.  The larger diameter of these beams increase complications, but improved techniques and laser models has overcome this risk.

Slit Scanning Lasers

Slit scanning lasers use a smaller bean.  The beam is linked to a rotational device, which has slit holes to enlarge the area to be cut.  The beam scanning across the holes offers higher precision.  Slit scanning lasers provide a more uniform beam and create smoother cuts than broad-beam lasers - improving results. 

There is slightly greater chance of overcorrection with a slit scanning laser.

Spot Scanning Lasers

Spot scanning lasers are also called "flying spot" lasers.  They use a small diameter beam of only 0.8 to 2 millimeters.  This beam is scanned across the cornea in order to create the area to be cut.  Spot scanning lasers potentially create the smoothest cut.  They are capable of producing customized cuts and treating irregular astigmatism.

Eye-Tracking

Many new lasers contain an eye-tracking system.  This system links the position of the eye to the laser.  Lasers without this system make it necessary for the patient to fixate on a distant object and keep the eye perfectly still throughout the procedure.  This is uncomfortable, and may be impossible for hyper, nervous, or easily stressed people.

There are two different types of eye-tracking laser systems.  The first is called "open loop."  With open loop tracking, a video based tracking system monitors the pupil's location.  If the eye moves beyond a predetermined setting, it stops the procedure. 

The other form of tracking system is the "closed loop."  This system tracks the eye's movement, and makes adjustments according to the movement, unlike the open loop system, closed loop never interrupts the procedure.

IntraLase Lasers

Many surgeons use IntraLase lasers to perform Lasik eye surgery.  The IntraLase laser is capable of cutting the "flap" that needs to be in order to reach the cornea for shaping.  This laser creates a very precise pattern consisting of small, overlapping spaces. 

It works at a high speed that pulses at one quadrillionth of a second.  This allows the tissue to be both targeted and divided at a moleculer level, removing the needs for heat or damaging impact on the tissue.

The IntraLase laser utilizes computer software to guide the beam.  This software instructs the beam to apply a series of tiny bubbles on the central layer of the cornea.  This results in a corneal flap that is at a precise pre-determined depth and diameter.  This technology is used on thin corneas.

Through the variety of lasers available for use in Lasik surgery, eye surgeons are capable of creating a better out-look for millions of people. Patients can visit the FDA site to learn more about which lasers are approved for that vision problems.

Lasik Developments