FemtoLasik: the technique that achieves a vision without anomalies
Written by:The LASIK technique is used worldwide in ophthalmology to correct mild or moderate refractive defects , since the severe ones go better with ICL. In recent years the use of the femtosecond laser has been incorporated into this, giving rise to the so-called FEMTOLASIK.
During the procedure of this technique two types of laser are used: the Femtosecond, which has given the name to FEMTOLASIK, and the Excimer, which is in charge of controlling and correcting the patient's refractive error.
The combination of the Femtosecond and Excimer lasers allows to operate myopia in a safe way, reaching up to 6 and 7 diopters. This technique also allows treating hyperopia of up to 4.5 - 5.5 diopters and astigmatism up to almost 6. With regard to the minimum necessary to be able to be operated, refractive defects of from 0.50 diopters, both myopia , hyperopia and astigmatism, can generally be operated .
Uses of FemtoLasik
The first step in the operating room is the removal of the corneal flap. The FemtoLasik allows to avoid the use of the scalpel in this process, since the femtosecond laser manages to make a very regular incision, centered and of homogeneous thickness.
In the second process of the intervention the Excimer laser is applied to correct the patient's refractive defect. Prior to this, the parameters of the refraction of the patient, as well as the energy emitted by the laser on the eye and the time of application, are entered into a computer.
In addition, the Excimer laser includes the 'Eye Tracking' system that allows the laser to follow the movements of the eye during the intervention so that the treatment is centered with respect to the pupil and thus avoid problems if the eye moves. When the second laser is applied, the flap is returned to its natural position, where it is healed without need for stitches.
FemtoLasik: postoperative
More than 95% of the patients involved become emétropes, that is, they achieve a vision without anomalies. In case of any refractive defect, it may be operable in six months.
Post-operative recovery is rapid and the patient may notice an improvement from the time he leaves the operating room. The evaluation of the results is done in a review the day after the intervention.
During the first 10-12 hours it is recommended that the patient apply drops every hour. In addition, experts advise not to carry out work activities during the next 4 days.
Contraindications
- The patient can not be operated if he has a very thin cornea in reference to the diopters that must be removed.
- The specialist should also examine the curvature of the cornea to verify that it is adequate.
- Femtolaisk is contraindicated in patients with severe dry eyes, as the intervention may make it worse.
- The treatment is contraindicated for pregnant women, because it is an unstable period in the lack of sight.
