The introduction of laser eye surgery a number of years ago first via the PRK procedure and then using LASIK (an acronym for Laser Assisted In-situ Keratomileusis) marked a major step forward in vision correction without having to wear eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Whilst the LASIK procedure has proven very popular with millions of successful operations carried out around the world, there has always been a slight risk of an unsuccessful operation or of complications. These risks are primarily associated with the first stage of the operation in which a hand-held microkeratome blade is used to create a corneal flap. This flap is of vital importance to the overall success of the operation. If it is too thick or too thin or incorrectly shaped it could adversely affect the quality of vision.

Advances in laser technology have now made it possible to reduce the risks associated with LASIK eye surgery through a procedure known as IntraLase. The IntraLase procedure performs the first crucial part of the operation without use of a blade and as such improves on the safety, precision and outcome of traditional LASIK surgery.

With IntraLase, the corneal flap is created by the surgeon using a computer-guided laser with great precision, enabling the surgeon to have exact control over its dimensions. Accuracy is achievable within the range +/-10 microns. The result being that the flap can be tailored to meet the precise needs of each individual patient. It even means that patients who arent suitable candidates for traditional LASIK due to having corneas that are too thin, can now benefit from the operation.

Furthermore, by using IntraLase LASIK there is a much reduced risk of the corneal flap being displaced a complication which can arise with the microkeratome operation. IntraLase creates a distinct beveled edge to the flap, enabling precise repositioning and alignment after the procedure. This results in optimal healing of the cornea following the operation.

The IntraLase operation is also quicker than traditional LASIK depending on the laser used, typically 30 seconds per eye as opposed to around one minute. This has the benefit of greater comfort and less worry for the patient.

With regard to outcome of the procedure, results of clinical studies indicate that IntraLase patients have better resultant vision than those who underwent the traditional LASIK procedure employing a manual blade technique. The following are some of the benefits:

More patients achieved 20/20 or better vision
Reduced frequency of post-operative night-time glare and halos
Reduced incidence of dry eye symptoms
Fewer enhancement procedures needed following the initial operation
Reduced frequency of induced astigmatism after the operation
Patient satisfaction much higher in those expressing a preference

The cost of an IntraLase operation is higher than that of traditional LASIK eye surgery. About a 20% increase has been quoted. However the added degree of safety combined with the promise of better vision is persuading increasingly more laser eye surgery patients to opt for IntraLase.