IntraLase® (Bladeless LASIK)
IntraLase® has redefined the world of LASIK vision correction. Also known as bladeless LASIK, the IntraLase® all-laser procedure eliminates the need for a metal blade during surgery, helping bring clear vision to many people who feel uneasy about undergoing LASIK with a blade or microkeratome, or for those who may not be candidates for the traditional LASIK procedure.
The state-of-the-art IntraLase® technology replaces the microkeratome blade that has traditionally been used to cut the necessary corneal flap during laser vision correction procedures. Rather than creating the flap with a blade, IntraLase® uses laser energy to make an incision. By replacing the hand-held blade with a computer-controlled laser, the risk of complications is virtually eliminated.
The Benefits of IntraLase®
Because of the low risk of complications and high level of precision it provides, bladeless LASIK treatment is performed by many leading LASIK surgeons and ophthalmic teaching institutions worldwide. Many patients feel more confident about undergoing laser vision correction using only laser energy.
Compared to methods that use a microkeratome blade, this minimally invasive and incredibly precise procedure decreases the risk of surgical complications. Of the many IntraLase® procedures that have been performed globally to date, serious or sight-threatening complications are considered rare.
Candidates for IntraLase®
Many patients seeking laser vision correction using the most advanced techniques are candidates for the IntraLase procedure. A LASIK evaluation is required to see if you are a candidate for laser vision correction. Ideal candidates for IntraLase® must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have stable vision for at least one year prior to surgery
- Not suffer from dry eye sydrome or any autoimmune disorder
- Have no scarring on the cornea
Ideal candidates for IntraLase® surgery do not suffer from dry eye syndrome or any autoimmune disorder such as lupus or Sjogren's syndrome, and have no scarring on the cornea. Your doctor will determine whether or not this procedure is right for you after a thorough evaluation of your vision and overall health.
How IntraLase® Works
The IntraLase® laser uses quick pulses (a quadrillion per second) of laser energy to create the flap in the cornea needed to correct refractive problems. The computer-guided laser pulses travel through the outer layers of the cornea, moving back and forth across the eye to create microscopic bubbles at a specified depth. The bubbles under the cornea eventually create a perforation. The surgeon is then able to gently separate the perforated tissue to create a flap, allowing him to continue with the laser vision correction procedure.
Because the laser is guided by a computer, the procedure is carried out with extreme precision and creates the optimal depth, position, and diameter for the flap specific to each patient. The entire process of creating the corneal flap is quite short.
After the IntraLase® Procedure
Discomfort is usually minimal following IntraLase®. Most patients notice an improvement in vision the very next day. Most patients are able to resume normal daily activities, including driving and returning to work, at this time. You should, however, avoid using any eye makeup for three days following the procedure and avoid swimming and rubbing your eyes for two weeks. Specific post-operative instructions will vary depending on the patient's individual case, as well as the physical requirements of their job, and will be determined case by case by the doctor.
Some patients experience increased sensitivity to bright light in the weeks following IntraLase®. Patients sometimes also report seeing halos around lights at night. On occasion, patients may experience dry eyes and require eye drops to increase moisture. These symptoms typically decrease shortly after the surgery.
Regularly scheduled follow-up visits are required to make sure that the procedure went well and your vision remains crisp and clear. Some patients may also require additional correction treatments to maintain the results of their procedure. It is important for patients to be aware that IntraLase® does not correct presbyopia, the natural loss of vision that affects nearly everyone beginning in their 40s or 50s. If reading glasses are needed to correct presbyopia prior to refractive surgery, they will most likely be needed after surgery as well.
Risks
IntraLase® has proven to be extremely safe and effective. Nevertheless, no surgery is entirely free from risks and complications. Some patients experience light sensitivity. Also, inflammation can occur in the cornea. Though microscopic, this swelling can lead to blurred vision. Dry eyes may also be experienced, in which case eye drops may be recommended to lubricate the eyes.
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