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The Intralase Method (IntraLasik)

Dr Rick Wolfe is among a select number of ophthalmic surgeons whose work has contributed toward the milestone one millionth all-laser LASIK procedure using the IntraLase MethodTM, confirming the demand for IntraLase® FS laser technology, according to IntraLase Corp.

The IntraLase FS laser is the first technology for a truly all-laser, blade-free LASIK procedure, replacing the hand-held microkeratome blade historically used in creating LASIK corneal flaps - the first step of the procedure - with a computer-guided, ultra-fast femtosecond (fem-to-second) laser. The IntraLase laser virtually eliminates the most severe sight-threatening LASIK complications related to use of the microkeratome and, by creating an optimal corneal surface below the flap, provides for better visual outcomes taking many patients to 20/20 vision and beyond.

We have seen a significant improvement in our visual acuity outcomes and a meaningful reduction in our LASIK complication rate using the IntraLase method. The blade-free approach is a very comforting message to patients, since it addresses one of their primary obstacles - fear of the surgery. Offering the IntraLase all-laser LASIK platform has been a very positive experience for our patients, referring doctors and surgeons.

  • Using an "inside-out" process, the laser beam is precisely focused to a point within the cornea.
  • The laser pulses then create thousands of microscopic bubbles which define the incision within the intracorneal surface.
  • Along the edge, bubbles are then stacked up at a beveled angle - a feature unique to the IntraLase Method - to the corneal surface to complete the flap.
  • From start to finish, the IntraLase Method typically takes 15 - 30 seconds.
  • The physician then exposes the prepared corneal bed for excimer laser treatment (the second step of LASIK) by lifting the flap.
  • The LASIK procedure is complete when the flap is securely repositioned on its beveled edge.

With the IntraLase laser, the surgeon can precisely control the critical first step of LASIK. Physician-programmed laser specifications include flap diameter, depth, hinge location and width, and side-cut architecture – factors which can be varied to meet patients’ needs. The IntraLase laser creates a distinctive beveled-edge flap, which allows for precise repositioning, alignment and seating after LASIK is completed. This feature reduces the risk of flap displacement, a complication seen with microkeratome flaps.

The IntraLase laser makes LASIK safer by replacing the hand-held microkeratome blade with the computer-guided precision of a laser. The completion of approximately one million IntraLase Method procedures demonstrates an impressive safety profile for patients. LASIK with the advanced IntraLase Method also has been clinically proven to deliver better visual outcomes in both standard and Custom LASIK procedures with more patients achieving visual acuity of 20/20, 20/15 and even 20/12.5.

For more information on the IntraLase go to www.intralase.com

IntraLase is a registered trademark of IntraLase Corp. IntraLase Method is a trademark of IntraLase Corp. The IntraLase Method can only be performed using the IntraLase FS laser. Mkt Doc 578 Rev. A