IntraLase is a new state-of-the-art technology introduced in laser treatment that helps in preparing the corneal flap for surgery by using a femtosecond laser. Unlike the conventional LASIK procedure that uses a blade to produce a flap with the help of the microkeratome device, the IntraLase treatment is a no-blade procedure. Therefore, it creates an incision that is precise in terms of depth and accuracy. The laser-guided incision is thinner and cleaner. IntraLase has created a great advancement in LASIK technology since its introduction into the field of eye surgery.
IntraLase Treatment Procedure
- Step 1: Guide the laser to the point of focus on the cornea prior to creating the flap.
- Step 2: Creating the Flap – The surgeon can skillfully use the laser to control the creation of the flap in terms of its thickness, angle and circumference, creating a flap to suit the eye of the patient undergoing the surgery.
- Step 3: Lifting and folding the flap back – The surgeon gently lifts the flap back to enable the guiding of the excimer laser for treatment.
- Step 4: The excimer laser is applied for treatment.
- Step 5: Repositioning the flap – After the excimer laser is applied to the area of the eye requiring treatment, the flap is returned back to facilitate healing.
Benefits IntraLase Treatment Compared to the Traditional Microkeratome Device
- It allows more precision in creating the flap without the use of a blade.
- The bladeless technology gives better control and greater confidence to the surgeon.
- It helps speed up the recovery and healing process.
- There is an almost negligible complication rate (less than 1%).
- It creates a custom flap for each eye to suit the individual needs of the patient.
- It creates noticeable improvement in both short-term and long-term safety.
- Even patients with flat corneas formerly unsuitable for LASIK treatments when performed by the traditional microkeratome device can now be treated safely by IntraLase.
- Anxiety and stress for patient is substantially reduced.
- The vision improvement rate is higher in most patients. Most patients successfully achieve 20:20 vision.
- Human error is minimized.
[highlight]In short, IntraLase is a quicker and safer alternative to the mechanical blade method. The result for patients treated through IntraLase has been excellent.[/highlight]