Custom Wavefront Lasik...VISX Star S4 excimer laser...Free Consultation...Lasik Specialist... Where do you start when choosing a Lasik surgeon for your eyes? For example in Sacramento, California, there are 18 Lasik Surgeons, 8 Lasik Centers, 4 Different types of lasers for Lasik surgery. How do you know where to go? How do you decide what doctor to see?
Lasik University
Lasik surgery is performed on approximately one million eyes every year in the world. There are more than five thousand surgeons who perform Lasik surgery. How do you find a truly great laser eye surgeon for your pair of nearsighted or farsighted eye? And, of course, there's always astigmatism...
A good place to start is the nature of the laser vision doctor who will be performing the operation on the only pair of eyes you have. Meet the Lasik surgeon for a free consultation and talk to him/her for a few minutes. Is this someone who treats you
Lasik Surgeon Checklist
# Lasik Cases by Surgeon 500+
% Enhancements 5-10%
Can you talk to past patients? Yes
Complications? Few; none serious
Wavefront Custom Lasik? Yes
20/20 or better 90+%
Who does the measurements Surgeon
Accessibility of Lasik Surgeon Personal telephone number
Postoperative Care Surgeon
Duration of Care Unlimited
Free Lasik Consultation? Yes
Price of Surgery $1500-$2500 per eye
Price of Enhancments Minimal
Price of Plugs Free
printable version
as a unique individual with your own special visual needs? Is this someone who lets you ask your questions and answers them in specifics? Is this someone you feel comfortable with?
Investigate the results of the Lasik surgeon. It is important that he/she has done a minimum of 500 cases – experience counts! Have the results of the surgeries resulted in more than 90% of the patients seeing 20/20 or better? Does the surgeon need to do an enhancement surgery in more than 10% of the cases? Are the patients happy? Can you call or email some of the past patients to see what the procedure was like? What kind of complications has the surgeon experienced? Anything serious? All surgeons have had a few minor complications, so this question may be a test of character.
What kind of surgery will you be having? Custom Wavefront is truly the state of the art procedure. Traditional Lasik began in 1989 and usually results in an 80% chance of seeing 20/20 for nearsighted persons; Wavefront Lasik was approved in 2003 and allows up to a 98% chance of 20/20 for nearsighted person. Everyone who qualifies for the Custom Wavefront Lasik should have it (it also improves night vision and reduces glare.) It is a little more expensive (the laser companies recoup their research money) but it’s worth it.
Who does the measurements and the Custom Wavefront calculations? Is it the Lasik surgeon or a technician whose degree of training may be quite variable? This data is used to treat your eye. It is critical that its gathering and its entry be 100% accurate.
And, the follow-up after surgery… How accessible is the Lasik surgeon? Do you have a cell phone number? A home telephone number? Does the surgeon even live in the community or is he/she doing surgery in another city or state the next day?
It is essential to see the surgeon the day after surgery. It’s unlikely but sometimes flaps need to be adjusted or irrigated – only the Lasik surgeon can do that! And can you see the surgeon on a regular basis after surgery or are you ‘cut off’ after three months or so?
Last of all, the price. Is it worthwhile to cut corners here? The average price in Sacramento is $2,000 per eye which should get you Traditional or Custom Wavefront Lasik. That’s what most people end up paying, even when they bring in the ad that says “$394 per eye”. You get what you pay for…
Lasik University
The State of the Refractive Surgery Industry (Read this Article!)
Hi Folks, this is a great article from the President and Ceo of Advanced Medical Optics also the owner of the VISX Laser. (enjoy)
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
James V. Mazzo, President & CEO, Advanced Medical Optics
The past year ushered in tremendous growth and excitement in the refractive surgery industry, led by new technologies and reimbursement changes that are providing doctors and patients with an increasing number of options for quality vision treatment.
The landmark event of 2005 was the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) ruling that allowed Medicare patients to pay a premium to receive a presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens (IOL). This spurred tremendous interest in new refractive IOLs launched by AMO and others. On the laser vision correction front, the global markets continued to exhibit growth, driven by new technologies and expanded treatment ranges. Industry consolidation also continued in 2005, marked by AMO's mid-year acquisition of VISX, Incorporated, the world leader in laser vision correction.
Laser Vision Correction Procedure Growth
Procedure volume for laser vision correction in the USA grew in 2005, although not at quite the rate of the previous year. In 2004, however, growth was based on a comparison against 2003, which was a slow year. Also, in 2004, FDA approvals for wavefront-guided custom LASIK energized the industry. This helped drive a significant shift in 2005 in the mix of refractive procedures, with custom accounting for about half of all procedures in the USA. Other exciting developments included the release of sophisticated iris registration technology, which allows surgeons to achieve a new level of precision in LASIK treatment alignment.
Outside the USA, laser vision correction growth was also positive. AMO is helping to drive this growth by leveraging our large global cataract structure to grow the laser vision correction platform in select markets of Asia Pacific, Europe, and Japan. These are markets poised for significant growth in overall volume and the proportion of custom procedures as international surgeons become more familiar with the clinical benefits of wavefront-guided technologies.
The Outlook for Laser Vision Correction
The future is bright for the laser vision correction market. Manufacturers continue to develop new technologies and seek expanded treatment ranges, providing surgeons with an increasing number of options to offer patients and the ability to achieve optimal outcomes. At AMO, we are focusing our resources on seeking LASIK approval for the treatment of presbyopia in mid and low hyperopes, as well as low myopes. This could ultimately give surgeons an important tool for helping the massive baby boomer population- some 76 million strong in the US alone and known for reshaping habits, styles, and attitudes towards aging -find viable alternatives to reading glasses and bifocals.
The femtosecond laser will certainly play an important role in the future of refractive surgery. Not only has this technology filled a medical and marketing need with all-laser- LASIK, but it could also help usher in use of corneal inlays.
The mechanical microkeratome also continues to play an important role in the growth of refractive surgery. These have advanced markedly in recent years and offer standard deviations that rival laser flaps. In addition, epi-LASIK features offer increased flexibility to surgeons, allowing them to make either stromal cuts, as in traditional LASIK, or lift off the epithelium and ablate on Bowmans membrane. Again, what we see is the technology expanding options for patients and surgeons.
Emergence of Refractive IOLs
In the past, cataract patients may have been satisfied if their surgery gave them distance vision unimpaired by cataracts. After surgery, they were happy to get on with life in low-power bi- or trifocals. However, today's seniors are more active, and are looking to regain the functional vision they enjoyed when they were younger and less dependent on eyeglasses. This patient need is driving the convergence of refractive and cataract surgery.
The refractive IOL market is still in its infancy but is set for explosive growth with the CMS ruling. This is giving millions of cataract patients access to presbyopia-correcting IOLs and powering a swifter migration of cataract surgeons to refractive procedures. For example, at a recent continuing education symposium at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 42% of the nearly 600 doctors in attendance expected between 5% and 20% of their 2006 lens implants to be multifocal IOLs. Another 24% expected multifocal IOLs to represent between 21% and 50% of their implants. These responses are a clear indication of how quickly this refractive IOL market is developing.
Movement to refractive implants is also changing the doctor/patient dynamic by shifting the focus of the discussion to one of lifestyle. Doctors are spending more time with patients to ascertain how patients spend their time, whether they are avid readers, tennis players, or frequent computer users. This is important because one IOL design may be better for near vision, while another may provide better intermediate or distance vision. All this information is essential in order for the surgeon to select the specific refractive technology, or blend of technologies, that will result in the best possible outcome for that patient.
In addition, surgeons interested in adopting refractive IOLs are reevaluating their office staffing and setup to make sure they are properly positioned to educate and interact with a private-pay patient who expects a high level of personalized service.
Future of Refractive IOLs
Patient needs will continue to drive the refractive IOL market forward. Today's multifocal IOLs represent a big step forward in this evolution, but they are only the beginning. AMO and various other industry players are dedicating significant R&D resources to deliver improved IOL designs, including accommodating lenses that mimic the normal focusing movement of the natural lens and customized IOLs, which can be tailored precisely to an individual patient's specific needs.
Capturing the Presbyopic Emmetrope
Another trend to watch is the development of surgical treatments for the presbyopic emmetrope. This is a massive segment of the population that has received little attention from refractive surgery to date. However, as an industry, we are moving closer to the time when managing presbyopia surgically will be a routine procedure. Some of the options include multifocal ablation technology, conductive keratoplasty, multifocal IOLs, accommodating IOLs, and corneal inlays.
Looking Forward
This is an exciting time for refractive surgery, as new technologies are reshaping the market and providing doctors with innovations to address a full range of patients' vision care needs. The population continues to age and roughly 60% of the world has some form of refractive error. The vast majority of this vision-corrected population still relies on eyeglasses or contact lenses, with roughly 3% opting for refractive surgical procedures to date. People are motivated to have refractive surgery and willing to pay for the procedures because freedom from eyeglasses not only improves their physical appearance, but it also enhances the quality and convenience of their daily lives.
The refractive industry is a healthy one, made up of large, global companies offering large product portfolios, and smaller players specializing in single-product technologies.
Some of these companies include AMO, Alcon, Bausch & Lomb, Eyeonics, and Intralase. Combined, these companies have increased spending on research and development by roughly 20% in absolute dollars over the past 2 years. AMO has increased its R&D spending by about 50% over the past 3 years alone. These numbers speak well to the vitality of the industry and will lead to many new advancements and opportunities. Most of all, it bodes well for the doctors and the patients they serve.
Well I hope you enjoyed this article, please check back as I will keep you all posted on more Lasik Industry news. I will keep all of you as up to date on the upcoming technology as possible. Please visit www.lasik.fm to "Logon, Listen and Learn about Lasik" Take Care
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
James V. Mazzo, President & CEO, Advanced Medical Optics
The past year ushered in tremendous growth and excitement in the refractive surgery industry, led by new technologies and reimbursement changes that are providing doctors and patients with an increasing number of options for quality vision treatment.
The landmark event of 2005 was the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services' (CMS) ruling that allowed Medicare patients to pay a premium to receive a presbyopia-correcting intraocular lens (IOL). This spurred tremendous interest in new refractive IOLs launched by AMO and others. On the laser vision correction front, the global markets continued to exhibit growth, driven by new technologies and expanded treatment ranges. Industry consolidation also continued in 2005, marked by AMO's mid-year acquisition of VISX, Incorporated, the world leader in laser vision correction.
Laser Vision Correction Procedure Growth
Procedure volume for laser vision correction in the USA grew in 2005, although not at quite the rate of the previous year. In 2004, however, growth was based on a comparison against 2003, which was a slow year. Also, in 2004, FDA approvals for wavefront-guided custom LASIK energized the industry. This helped drive a significant shift in 2005 in the mix of refractive procedures, with custom accounting for about half of all procedures in the USA. Other exciting developments included the release of sophisticated iris registration technology, which allows surgeons to achieve a new level of precision in LASIK treatment alignment.
Outside the USA, laser vision correction growth was also positive. AMO is helping to drive this growth by leveraging our large global cataract structure to grow the laser vision correction platform in select markets of Asia Pacific, Europe, and Japan. These are markets poised for significant growth in overall volume and the proportion of custom procedures as international surgeons become more familiar with the clinical benefits of wavefront-guided technologies.
The Outlook for Laser Vision Correction
The future is bright for the laser vision correction market. Manufacturers continue to develop new technologies and seek expanded treatment ranges, providing surgeons with an increasing number of options to offer patients and the ability to achieve optimal outcomes. At AMO, we are focusing our resources on seeking LASIK approval for the treatment of presbyopia in mid and low hyperopes, as well as low myopes. This could ultimately give surgeons an important tool for helping the massive baby boomer population- some 76 million strong in the US alone and known for reshaping habits, styles, and attitudes towards aging -find viable alternatives to reading glasses and bifocals.
The femtosecond laser will certainly play an important role in the future of refractive surgery. Not only has this technology filled a medical and marketing need with all-laser- LASIK, but it could also help usher in use of corneal inlays.
The mechanical microkeratome also continues to play an important role in the growth of refractive surgery. These have advanced markedly in recent years and offer standard deviations that rival laser flaps. In addition, epi-LASIK features offer increased flexibility to surgeons, allowing them to make either stromal cuts, as in traditional LASIK, or lift off the epithelium and ablate on Bowmans membrane. Again, what we see is the technology expanding options for patients and surgeons.
Emergence of Refractive IOLs
In the past, cataract patients may have been satisfied if their surgery gave them distance vision unimpaired by cataracts. After surgery, they were happy to get on with life in low-power bi- or trifocals. However, today's seniors are more active, and are looking to regain the functional vision they enjoyed when they were younger and less dependent on eyeglasses. This patient need is driving the convergence of refractive and cataract surgery.
The refractive IOL market is still in its infancy but is set for explosive growth with the CMS ruling. This is giving millions of cataract patients access to presbyopia-correcting IOLs and powering a swifter migration of cataract surgeons to refractive procedures. For example, at a recent continuing education symposium at the American Academy of Ophthalmology, 42% of the nearly 600 doctors in attendance expected between 5% and 20% of their 2006 lens implants to be multifocal IOLs. Another 24% expected multifocal IOLs to represent between 21% and 50% of their implants. These responses are a clear indication of how quickly this refractive IOL market is developing.
Movement to refractive implants is also changing the doctor/patient dynamic by shifting the focus of the discussion to one of lifestyle. Doctors are spending more time with patients to ascertain how patients spend their time, whether they are avid readers, tennis players, or frequent computer users. This is important because one IOL design may be better for near vision, while another may provide better intermediate or distance vision. All this information is essential in order for the surgeon to select the specific refractive technology, or blend of technologies, that will result in the best possible outcome for that patient.
In addition, surgeons interested in adopting refractive IOLs are reevaluating their office staffing and setup to make sure they are properly positioned to educate and interact with a private-pay patient who expects a high level of personalized service.
Future of Refractive IOLs
Patient needs will continue to drive the refractive IOL market forward. Today's multifocal IOLs represent a big step forward in this evolution, but they are only the beginning. AMO and various other industry players are dedicating significant R&D resources to deliver improved IOL designs, including accommodating lenses that mimic the normal focusing movement of the natural lens and customized IOLs, which can be tailored precisely to an individual patient's specific needs.
Capturing the Presbyopic Emmetrope
Another trend to watch is the development of surgical treatments for the presbyopic emmetrope. This is a massive segment of the population that has received little attention from refractive surgery to date. However, as an industry, we are moving closer to the time when managing presbyopia surgically will be a routine procedure. Some of the options include multifocal ablation technology, conductive keratoplasty, multifocal IOLs, accommodating IOLs, and corneal inlays.
Looking Forward
This is an exciting time for refractive surgery, as new technologies are reshaping the market and providing doctors with innovations to address a full range of patients' vision care needs. The population continues to age and roughly 60% of the world has some form of refractive error. The vast majority of this vision-corrected population still relies on eyeglasses or contact lenses, with roughly 3% opting for refractive surgical procedures to date. People are motivated to have refractive surgery and willing to pay for the procedures because freedom from eyeglasses not only improves their physical appearance, but it also enhances the quality and convenience of their daily lives.
The refractive industry is a healthy one, made up of large, global companies offering large product portfolios, and smaller players specializing in single-product technologies.
Some of these companies include AMO, Alcon, Bausch & Lomb, Eyeonics, and Intralase. Combined, these companies have increased spending on research and development by roughly 20% in absolute dollars over the past 2 years. AMO has increased its R&D spending by about 50% over the past 3 years alone. These numbers speak well to the vitality of the industry and will lead to many new advancements and opportunities. Most of all, it bodes well for the doctors and the patients they serve.
Well I hope you enjoyed this article, please check back as I will keep you all posted on more Lasik Industry news. I will keep all of you as up to date on the upcoming technology as possible. Please visit www.lasik.fm to "Logon, Listen and Learn about Lasik" Take Care
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Check out the Esiris Excimer Laser System!
ESIRIS belongs to the sixth generation of excimer laser appliances. ESIRIS is a product of modern high technologies developed in Germany. It is remarkable for a contemporary design, maximum safety and comfort for the patient. Owing to peculiarity of the laser ray (the so called flying spot) the ESIRIS works in a more sparing regime and has a number of advantages over lasers of precedent generations. In practice it means improvement of correction quality and quick rehabilitation after the operation.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
At present the “Sight Recovery Center” is the only clinic in Russia that is equipped with a laser installation of such a level.
Advantages of ESIRIS over laser installations of precedent generations
Quick restoration of cornea tissue and vision acuity after operation thanks to the flying spot of 0,8 mm in diameter.
Improved eye centering owing to high speed active tracking system. Even if a patient leads aside his eye, the laser ray will work precisely in the center of the pupil.
Minimum level of a cornea burn. The lowest thermal impact.
The lowest ablation depth (cornea remains thick after the operation) in comparison with other lasers. It diminishes the risk of its damage.
Correction possibility of high level ametropia – up to –18,0 D with the help of LASIK and PRK an also SUPERLASIK methods.
Cornea surface after ablation is most smooth and more exactly repeats the profile loaded into the laser computer. This is attained by introducing newest scientific elaborations.
The diminishing of risk of post operation opacity by PRK.
The possibility of forming of an individual ablation profile.
The possibility of correction of higher order aberrations (SUPERLASIK method).
Correction of hypermetropia with ablation zone up to 9,00 mm.
Optimum distribution of energy on the cornea (ablation frequency – 200 Hz).
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
At present the “Sight Recovery Center” is the only clinic in Russia that is equipped with a laser installation of such a level.
Advantages of ESIRIS over laser installations of precedent generations
Quick restoration of cornea tissue and vision acuity after operation thanks to the flying spot of 0,8 mm in diameter.
Improved eye centering owing to high speed active tracking system. Even if a patient leads aside his eye, the laser ray will work precisely in the center of the pupil.
Minimum level of a cornea burn. The lowest thermal impact.
The lowest ablation depth (cornea remains thick after the operation) in comparison with other lasers. It diminishes the risk of its damage.
Correction possibility of high level ametropia – up to –18,0 D with the help of LASIK and PRK an also SUPERLASIK methods.
Cornea surface after ablation is most smooth and more exactly repeats the profile loaded into the laser computer. This is attained by introducing newest scientific elaborations.
The diminishing of risk of post operation opacity by PRK.
The possibility of forming of an individual ablation profile.
The possibility of correction of higher order aberrations (SUPERLASIK method).
Correction of hypermetropia with ablation zone up to 9,00 mm.
Optimum distribution of energy on the cornea (ablation frequency – 200 Hz).
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Esiris Excimer Laser System is totally awesome!
200Hz pulse frequency - 330Hz active high speed eye tracking
0.8mm scanning spot with Gaussian beam profile
LASIK / PRK / LASEK / PTK - ORK "customized ablation" (topography / corneal wavefront and aberrometry guided customized ablation)
Lasik system with the Carriazo-Pendular microkeratome
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
ESIRIS - future oriented Excimer laser system eminently suited for refractive surgery in the years to come. Integrated "ORK"-software for today's individual topography, corneal wavefront or aberrometry- guided "customized ablation". Clinical studies reveal outstanding results with regards to optimal correction of the eye and its surface quality.
ESIRIS - patient comfort and high system safety
Modern high-tech product - "engineered in Germany". The system offers high patient comfort and has important technical safety features:
optimal energy distribution on the cornea
low ablation depth
high corrections possible
reduced risk of postoperative haze with PRK
lowest thermal effects on the corneal tissue during ablation
individual ablation profile possible
extremely "shape-true" with wavefront guided ablations - ("treatment of higher orders")
a worldwide unique laser treatment with selective corneal wavefront data
hyperopic treatments with enhanced ablation zones up to 9mm possible
quick post-operative recovery of visual acuity and tissue healing due to the 0.8mm spot size
ESIRIS - achieves one of the smoothest ablation surfaces
200Hz ablation frequency
short treatment times while maintaining a high surface quality at the same time, and, the low roughness
extremely even energy distribution possible during the ablation process
this results in one of the smoothest ablation surfaces yet known
Precise 0.8mm scanning spot laser with perfect beam delivery control
highly precise 200Hz scanning spot 193nm ArF Excimer laser and the optimized beam delivery system make a beam diameter of 0.8mm possible - Gaussian profile.
ESIRIS - optimized centering of the eye - no suction- or tracking-ring necessary for the eye tracker
330Hz high speed eye tracking system
ESIRIS has one of the fastest active eye trackers worldwide, with dual infrared illumination system
safe and highly precise treatment results coupled with safe tracking of even the quickest eye movements (saccades of up to 250Hz are compensated for)
it is comforting for the patient that no additional suction rings or any other instruments for the eye tracker are used, which are necessary in other laser systems
ESIRIS does not put additional strain on the eye, i.e. as with suction and fixation
Additionally, the eye tracker offers the possibility to shift the centering point. This so-called "tracking offset" may aid especially with hyperopia treatments of nasally fixed patients
ESIRIS - optimized ergonomic design and handling comfort
Design
The elegant, consistent design, and the ergonomic order of the system components meet high customer demands for modern, high-tech equipment.
LASIK
29cm working distance between laser arm and patient eye. Ideal for LASIK with all commercial microkeratomes for professional LASIK.
Compact assembly
Only requires a small space 4.5 x 3m incl. patient bed.
Patient bed
elegant design for a relaxed, comfortable position - breathable, easy-care vinyl cover.
Central control (x-y-z) via near-by joystick (Optionally positioned to the right or left of the surgeon)
easy entry / exit for the patient integrated memory function (The patient bed may be moved automatically back and forth underneath the laser arm at the press of a button)
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
0.8mm scanning spot with Gaussian beam profile
LASIK / PRK / LASEK / PTK - ORK "customized ablation" (topography / corneal wavefront and aberrometry guided customized ablation)
Lasik system with the Carriazo-Pendular microkeratome
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
ESIRIS - future oriented Excimer laser system eminently suited for refractive surgery in the years to come. Integrated "ORK"-software for today's individual topography, corneal wavefront or aberrometry- guided "customized ablation". Clinical studies reveal outstanding results with regards to optimal correction of the eye and its surface quality.
ESIRIS - patient comfort and high system safety
Modern high-tech product - "engineered in Germany". The system offers high patient comfort and has important technical safety features:
optimal energy distribution on the cornea
low ablation depth
high corrections possible
reduced risk of postoperative haze with PRK
lowest thermal effects on the corneal tissue during ablation
individual ablation profile possible
extremely "shape-true" with wavefront guided ablations - ("treatment of higher orders")
a worldwide unique laser treatment with selective corneal wavefront data
hyperopic treatments with enhanced ablation zones up to 9mm possible
quick post-operative recovery of visual acuity and tissue healing due to the 0.8mm spot size
ESIRIS - achieves one of the smoothest ablation surfaces
200Hz ablation frequency
short treatment times while maintaining a high surface quality at the same time, and, the low roughness
extremely even energy distribution possible during the ablation process
this results in one of the smoothest ablation surfaces yet known
Precise 0.8mm scanning spot laser with perfect beam delivery control
highly precise 200Hz scanning spot 193nm ArF Excimer laser and the optimized beam delivery system make a beam diameter of 0.8mm possible - Gaussian profile.
ESIRIS - optimized centering of the eye - no suction- or tracking-ring necessary for the eye tracker
330Hz high speed eye tracking system
ESIRIS has one of the fastest active eye trackers worldwide, with dual infrared illumination system
safe and highly precise treatment results coupled with safe tracking of even the quickest eye movements (saccades of up to 250Hz are compensated for)
it is comforting for the patient that no additional suction rings or any other instruments for the eye tracker are used, which are necessary in other laser systems
ESIRIS does not put additional strain on the eye, i.e. as with suction and fixation
Additionally, the eye tracker offers the possibility to shift the centering point. This so-called "tracking offset" may aid especially with hyperopia treatments of nasally fixed patients
ESIRIS - optimized ergonomic design and handling comfort
Design
The elegant, consistent design, and the ergonomic order of the system components meet high customer demands for modern, high-tech equipment.
LASIK
29cm working distance between laser arm and patient eye. Ideal for LASIK with all commercial microkeratomes for professional LASIK.
Compact assembly
Only requires a small space 4.5 x 3m incl. patient bed.
Patient bed
elegant design for a relaxed, comfortable position - breathable, easy-care vinyl cover.
Central control (x-y-z) via near-by joystick (Optionally positioned to the right or left of the surgeon)
easy entry / exit for the patient integrated memory function (The patient bed may be moved automatically back and forth underneath the laser arm at the press of a button)
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
The Bausch and Lomb Orbscan will map your eye!
Bausch & Lomb's Orbscan® IIz is a fully integrated multidimensional diagnostic system that elevates diagnostics beyond mere topography. Unlike current topography systems which scan the surface of the eye at standard points, the Orbscan II acquires over 9000 data points in 1.5 seconds to meticulously map the entire corneal surface (11 mm), and analyze elevation and curvature measurements on both the anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea.
By providing more comprehensive pre-op diagnostics and planning, exclusionary criteria such as keratoconus, pre-keratoconus, and corneal thinning can be identified to optimize outcomes in both primary treatments and enhancements. The Orbscan II may help explain decreased visual acuity post-op, and is designed to allow the surgeon to more accurately prescribe retreatments, if necessary.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
Acquires over 9000 data points in 1.5 seconds
Analyzes elevation and curvature measurements on both anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea
Capable of detecting and analyzing posterior corneal abnormalities where corneal anomalies first appear
Features dynamic, Windows-based platform designed to integrate continuing advances via upgradable software
Customizable quad maps show any combination of measurements in one convenient format
Slit scanning technology combined with an advanced placido disc system
Anterior corneal elevation and curvature
Posterior corneal elevation and curvature
Full corneal pachymetry
Simulated keratometry
White-to-white diameter
Pupil size (mesopic)
Anterior chamber depth
Angle kappa
Irregularity index
If you have something else to add regarding the Bausch and Lomb Orbscan please post it here.
Thanks,
Lasik Counselor
www.lasik.FM
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
By providing more comprehensive pre-op diagnostics and planning, exclusionary criteria such as keratoconus, pre-keratoconus, and corneal thinning can be identified to optimize outcomes in both primary treatments and enhancements. The Orbscan II may help explain decreased visual acuity post-op, and is designed to allow the surgeon to more accurately prescribe retreatments, if necessary.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
Acquires over 9000 data points in 1.5 seconds
Analyzes elevation and curvature measurements on both anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea
Capable of detecting and analyzing posterior corneal abnormalities where corneal anomalies first appear
Features dynamic, Windows-based platform designed to integrate continuing advances via upgradable software
Customizable quad maps show any combination of measurements in one convenient format
Slit scanning technology combined with an advanced placido disc system
Anterior corneal elevation and curvature
Posterior corneal elevation and curvature
Full corneal pachymetry
Simulated keratometry
White-to-white diameter
Pupil size (mesopic)
Anterior chamber depth
Angle kappa
Irregularity index
If you have something else to add regarding the Bausch and Lomb Orbscan please post it here.
Thanks,
Lasik Counselor
www.lasik.FM
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Eye openers: the latest innovations in vision surgery
Thanks to new technology you just may be able to hang up those glasses. Alternatives to LASIK, the popular surgery that corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, promise simpler methods and faster results. Here we offer an overview of the newest options. For more information, visit aao.org, the Web site of the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
Focal Point: FDA-approved in September 2004, ICL (a permanent contact-lens implant generally made out of plastic) may be the answer for patients who are too nearsighted for LASIK.
Surgical View: The patient receives topical or local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the Collamer lens next to the patient's natural lens, behind the iris.
Recovery Zone: The small incision should heal, and full vision should be restored in 24 to 48 hours. Any swelling should only last three days.
Price Scan: ICL costs about $3,000 per eye. Like most elective vision surgeries, it isn't covered by insurance.
Wavefront Guided Ablation
Focal Point: Popularly known as Custom LASIK, Wavefront Guided Ablation increases a patient's chance for 20/20 vision and may also improve night vision. "[Custom LASIK] detects all the little distortions," says Paul Karpecki, M.D., director of research at Moyes Eye Center in Kansas City, Missouri. "it's more customized to the individual eye, and the Wave-front [technology] may contribute to making the procedure safer."
Surgical View: A surgeon uses computer software to pinpoint distortions and guide the laser. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes.
Recovery Zone: Some patients may experience initial burning or stinging. Most notice better vision immediately, with overall vision improvement within a month.
Price Scan: Custom costs $2,000 to $2,400 per eye compared with $1,000 for traditional LASIK. insurance doesn't cover it.
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
Focal Point: FDA-approved last April, this procedure may be ideal for patients over 45 with presbyopia (you see well in the distance but need glasses to see up close). "CK is one of the safest procedures because it doesn't involve any cutting inside the eye," says Karpecki. "The surgery is quick, but patients may need another procedure three to seven years later."
Surgical View: Using an instrument that produces radio waves, the surgeon reshapes the patient's cornea. Relatively painless, CK takes about two minutes per eye. Recovery Zone: It takes 24 to 48 hours for the point of insertion to heal and for scratchiness and light sensitivity to end. Vision improvement is usually immediate, with fully blended vision (both eyes working together correctly) occurring in four to six weeks.
Price Scan: CK isn't covered by insurance. It averages $1,500 per eye. (To correct near vision, many patients only need one eye treated.)
Accommodating Intraocular Lens
Focal Point: This updated version of cataract surgery improves overall vision. (Standard cataract surgery only addresses distance vision.)
Surgical View: While the patient is under local or topical anesthesia, a surgeon removes the natural lens and replaces it with a "hinged" silicone lens. This lens utilizes the eye muscle to move back and forth to restore vision at all distances. Patient must use postoperative drops to prevent infection. Recovery Zone: Incision should heal within 24 to 48 hours. Distance vision will be very good one to two days after surgery, but it may take up to a month for near vision to improve.
Price Scan: It can cost $4,500 per eye (!) and insurance doesn't yet cover it. "This procedure is so new," Karpecki explains. "But as with anything, the price may come down."
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL)
Focal Point: FDA-approved in September 2004, ICL (a permanent contact-lens implant generally made out of plastic) may be the answer for patients who are too nearsighted for LASIK.
Surgical View: The patient receives topical or local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision and inserts the Collamer lens next to the patient's natural lens, behind the iris.
Recovery Zone: The small incision should heal, and full vision should be restored in 24 to 48 hours. Any swelling should only last three days.
Price Scan: ICL costs about $3,000 per eye. Like most elective vision surgeries, it isn't covered by insurance.
Wavefront Guided Ablation
Focal Point: Popularly known as Custom LASIK, Wavefront Guided Ablation increases a patient's chance for 20/20 vision and may also improve night vision. "[Custom LASIK] detects all the little distortions," says Paul Karpecki, M.D., director of research at Moyes Eye Center in Kansas City, Missouri. "it's more customized to the individual eye, and the Wave-front [technology] may contribute to making the procedure safer."
Surgical View: A surgeon uses computer software to pinpoint distortions and guide the laser. The entire procedure takes about 30 minutes.
Recovery Zone: Some patients may experience initial burning or stinging. Most notice better vision immediately, with overall vision improvement within a month.
Price Scan: Custom costs $2,000 to $2,400 per eye compared with $1,000 for traditional LASIK. insurance doesn't cover it.
Conductive Keratoplasty (CK)
Focal Point: FDA-approved last April, this procedure may be ideal for patients over 45 with presbyopia (you see well in the distance but need glasses to see up close). "CK is one of the safest procedures because it doesn't involve any cutting inside the eye," says Karpecki. "The surgery is quick, but patients may need another procedure three to seven years later."
Surgical View: Using an instrument that produces radio waves, the surgeon reshapes the patient's cornea. Relatively painless, CK takes about two minutes per eye. Recovery Zone: It takes 24 to 48 hours for the point of insertion to heal and for scratchiness and light sensitivity to end. Vision improvement is usually immediate, with fully blended vision (both eyes working together correctly) occurring in four to six weeks.
Price Scan: CK isn't covered by insurance. It averages $1,500 per eye. (To correct near vision, many patients only need one eye treated.)
Accommodating Intraocular Lens
Focal Point: This updated version of cataract surgery improves overall vision. (Standard cataract surgery only addresses distance vision.)
Surgical View: While the patient is under local or topical anesthesia, a surgeon removes the natural lens and replaces it with a "hinged" silicone lens. This lens utilizes the eye muscle to move back and forth to restore vision at all distances. Patient must use postoperative drops to prevent infection. Recovery Zone: Incision should heal within 24 to 48 hours. Distance vision will be very good one to two days after surgery, but it may take up to a month for near vision to improve.
Price Scan: It can cost $4,500 per eye (!) and insurance doesn't yet cover it. "This procedure is so new," Karpecki explains. "But as with anything, the price may come down."
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
An old Article regarding The Nidek EC 5000 Excimer Laser System!
A new laser that treats the full range of nearsightedness and astigmatism, recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, is available at the UCSF Vision Correction Center.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
The newly approved excimer laser, manufactured by Nidek Inc., in Fremont, CA, allows eye specialists to treat extreme degrees of nearsightedness and astigmatism.
"The accuracy of the Nidek laser is excellent, allowing treatment to extend to the highest ranges of nearsightedness and astigmatism currently available on any laser system," said David Hwang, MD, UCSF professor and vice chair of ophthalmology and co-director of the UCSF Vision Correction Center. "We are excited about the approval because patients can now take advantage of the latest technology in vision correction."
UCSF, one of six sites nationally to test the laser through FDA clinical trials, has been studying the laser since 1995. Hwang served as the principal investigator of the study.
The laser corrects nearsightedness and astigmatism by reshaping the curvature of the eye's cornea -- the transparent part of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil and admits light to the interior.
Rather than being applied directly to the cornea as a large beam, the new laser uses a scanning-beam, removing tissue in a smooth and precise fashion across the cornea. This results in fast recovery and better optical quality, said Hwang.
In addition, the laser treats a 35 percent larger area of the cornea than conventional laser systems, which may reduce the risk of glare and halo side effects, he added.
UCSF ophthalmologists will use the new laser for both photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and LASIK procedures, both used to treat nearsightedness with astigmatism, according to Hwang. During the PRK procedure, the laser removes microscopic amounts of tissue from the surface of the cornea to change its shape.
In the LASIK procedure, UCSF ophthalmologists use an instrument called a microkeratome to lift a thin, hinged flap from the corneal surface. They then use the excimer laser to remove a precise amount of the eye's corneal tissue, and then fold the flap back into place without stitches. The LASIK procedure has the advantage of rapid recovery of vision and minimal discomfort following the procedure.
Although FDA approval of the Nidek laser is significant because it allows treatment of patients with extreme degrees of nearsightedness with astigmatism, it is also excellent at treating patients with more typical levels of nearsightedness and astigmatism, said Hwang. Clinical trials of the new laser showed that approximately 95 percent of moderately nearsighted individuals who undergo laser treatment can expect to achieve vision good enough to drive without corrective lenses.
In astigmatism, the cornea, instead of being spherical, is slightly oblong in shape, like a football, which causes light to focus on two separate points in the eye, creating a distorted image in both near and distant vision. Symptoms include blurriness or doubling of images.
A normal cornea is round, like a basketball and in normal vision, focuses light rays onto the retina. Nearsighted vision is caused by a steeper curvature in the cornea, forcing the light rays to focus in front of the retina. Farsighted individuals have flatter corneas, which focus the light rays behind the retina. More than half of the patients with nearsightedness have astigmatism and approximately 70 million people in the US are nearsighted, said Hwang. Astigmatism also affects patients with farsightedness and no laser has been approved for treatment of both farsightedness and astigmatism, said Hwang. UCSF will serve as one of the principal study sites to test the Nidek excimer laser for farsightedness with astigmatism and will enroll patients for clinical trials beginning in November.
The UCSF Vision Correction Center is a leading center for diagnosis, treatment and research of vision disorders. Patients interested in more information about the Nidek excimer laser should call the UCSF center at (415) 476-2561.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
Lasik Links
The newly approved excimer laser, manufactured by Nidek Inc., in Fremont, CA, allows eye specialists to treat extreme degrees of nearsightedness and astigmatism.
"The accuracy of the Nidek laser is excellent, allowing treatment to extend to the highest ranges of nearsightedness and astigmatism currently available on any laser system," said David Hwang, MD, UCSF professor and vice chair of ophthalmology and co-director of the UCSF Vision Correction Center. "We are excited about the approval because patients can now take advantage of the latest technology in vision correction."
UCSF, one of six sites nationally to test the laser through FDA clinical trials, has been studying the laser since 1995. Hwang served as the principal investigator of the study.
The laser corrects nearsightedness and astigmatism by reshaping the curvature of the eye's cornea -- the transparent part of the eye that covers the iris and the pupil and admits light to the interior.
Rather than being applied directly to the cornea as a large beam, the new laser uses a scanning-beam, removing tissue in a smooth and precise fashion across the cornea. This results in fast recovery and better optical quality, said Hwang.
In addition, the laser treats a 35 percent larger area of the cornea than conventional laser systems, which may reduce the risk of glare and halo side effects, he added.
UCSF ophthalmologists will use the new laser for both photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and LASIK procedures, both used to treat nearsightedness with astigmatism, according to Hwang. During the PRK procedure, the laser removes microscopic amounts of tissue from the surface of the cornea to change its shape.
In the LASIK procedure, UCSF ophthalmologists use an instrument called a microkeratome to lift a thin, hinged flap from the corneal surface. They then use the excimer laser to remove a precise amount of the eye's corneal tissue, and then fold the flap back into place without stitches. The LASIK procedure has the advantage of rapid recovery of vision and minimal discomfort following the procedure.
Although FDA approval of the Nidek laser is significant because it allows treatment of patients with extreme degrees of nearsightedness with astigmatism, it is also excellent at treating patients with more typical levels of nearsightedness and astigmatism, said Hwang. Clinical trials of the new laser showed that approximately 95 percent of moderately nearsighted individuals who undergo laser treatment can expect to achieve vision good enough to drive without corrective lenses.
In astigmatism, the cornea, instead of being spherical, is slightly oblong in shape, like a football, which causes light to focus on two separate points in the eye, creating a distorted image in both near and distant vision. Symptoms include blurriness or doubling of images.
A normal cornea is round, like a basketball and in normal vision, focuses light rays onto the retina. Nearsighted vision is caused by a steeper curvature in the cornea, forcing the light rays to focus in front of the retina. Farsighted individuals have flatter corneas, which focus the light rays behind the retina. More than half of the patients with nearsightedness have astigmatism and approximately 70 million people in the US are nearsighted, said Hwang. Astigmatism also affects patients with farsightedness and no laser has been approved for treatment of both farsightedness and astigmatism, said Hwang. UCSF will serve as one of the principal study sites to test the Nidek excimer laser for farsightedness with astigmatism and will enroll patients for clinical trials beginning in November.
The UCSF Vision Correction Center is a leading center for diagnosis, treatment and research of vision disorders. Patients interested in more information about the Nidek excimer laser should call the UCSF center at (415) 476-2561.
Nidek Laser Technolas Laser Ladar Laser Allegretto Laser Intralase Laser Hyperion Laser NearVision CK Visx Laser Mel 80 Laser Esiris Laser Laser Scan LSX Phasik
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