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Diagnostics and Technology
AcuFocus™: A cornea inlay for presbyopia correction
The AcuFocus™ ACI 7000 is an investigational device currently under IDE (Investigational Device Exemption) status. Two VSDAR member clinics participate in the world-wide clinical trials approved by the FDA. The AcuFocus™ ACI 7000 is placed in the cornea. There it sits securely under a LASIK-like corneal flap. More...
Custom LASIK
Synonyms: Wavefront LASIK, Aberrometer-guided LASIK, Individualized Vision Correction
Custom LASIK is based a wavefront analysis, producing a 3-D map demonstrating irregularities in the way the eye processes images. Information contained in the map guides the laser in customizing the treatment to reshape the eye's corneal surface so that the irregularities are corrected. Wavefront technology is groundbreaking because it has the potential to improve not only visual acuity but also contrast sensitivity and fine detail. It also reduces post-LASIK complications such as glare, halos, and difficulty with night vision.
3D Eye Tracking Systems
Eye tracking is a general term for keeping track of the motion of the eye itself relative to the head. Today, experts agree that some kind of eye tracking is necessary for laser vision correction procedures when using spot scanning lasers with longer procedure times. Eye-tracking systems link the operation of the laser to the position of the eye. The eye trackers monitor the location of the pupil and interrupt the laser beam if the eye moves beyond a predetermined distance. Without eye tracking, patients would be unable to fix their gaze long enough for the procedure to be completed. The latest eye tracking technologies include systems with 3D Iris Recognition capabilities that allow exact correction of astigmatism.
Femtosecond Laser Technologies
The femtosecond laser can be used to cut the corneal flap during LASIK surgery. Before, a hand-held microkeratome was used to cut a flap. A microkeratome is only capable of making a single, one-dimensional cut across the cornea. As it cuts, the blade oscillates back and forth, which can leave an irregular surface after the flap is lifted. This can affect the quality of your postoperative vision. The new blade-free femtosecond laser technology creates a precisely cut by positioning one layer of bubbles just beneath the surface of the cornea. It creates a smooth even surface after the flap is lifted.
