As the Medical Director of TLC Laser Eye Centers’ McLean, Virginia location, I am continually evaluating new technology to see if it will make the LASIK procedure safer for our patients. During the first step of the LASIK procedure, a three-sided flap is created in the outer layers of the cornea using either a mechanical microkeratome blade or a laser. Once the flap is open, surgeons can access and reshape the underlying corneal bed so light properly reflects off of the retina. I have performed thousands of LASIK surgeries with the microkeratome and have achieved great results with the device. However, experts have developed a safer, and more precise method of creating the flap; the Intralase® system employs the use of controlled amounts of laser energy to create flaps that are the ideal thickness and diameter. This results in a safer procedure, improved results, and a reduced risk of post-surgical complications for TLC’s LASIK patients.
Precision
The Intralase® laser is a computer-guided system that provides surgeons with an unprecedented level of precision and accuracy. Studies have shown that the laser is 100 times more precise than the handheld microkeratome blade. Microkeratomes offer great vision correction results, but their performance is not as predictable as those offered via the Intralase® laser technology. The Intralase® laser offers micron level accuracy, while the microkeratome is associated with an increased risk of flap complications.
Reduced Risk of Complications
According to the April 2006 issue of the American Journal of Ophthalmology, 0.3 to 5.7 percent of patients experience flap complications after LASIK surgery. These can include:
- · Incomplete or irregular corneal flaps
- · Flaps that are too small or thin
- · Small holes or tears in the middle of the flap (known as buttonholes)
- · Flaps without a hinge
- · Diffuse Lamellar Keratitis (DLK)
- · Flap wrinkling
- · Irregular astigmatism
- · Ectasia
The risk of developing these complications can be greatly reduced by undergoing Intralase® LASIK surgery with an experienced surgeon at one of the many TLC Laser Eye Centers located throughout the United States.
Improved Safety and Results
The Intralase® laser allows surgeons to preserve an increased amount of corneal tissue, create customized corneal flaps, and reduce the risk of post-surgical corneal flap complications. This results in a safer treatment that can treat a wider range of patients, with improved results.
Consult a TLC Affiliated LASIK Surgeon
At TLC Laser Eye Centers, we are committed to employing the best technology and most personalized care so each of our patients achieves exceptional results. We encourage our group of surgeons to draw upon one another’s experience and training so our patients benefit from our combined knowledge. Contact TLC Laser Eye Centers today to schedule your LASIK consultation with myself or another TLC affiliated surgeon.
