If you've been searching for a way to correct your vision without the use of eyeglasses or contact lenses, you've likely heard of LASIK - a form of eye surgery that corrects your refractive errors by reshaping the surface of your cornea with a laser. But you may have also heard other terms floating about, such as "IntraLASIK" or "IntraLase ", and are now left wondering whether or not these are the same thing as LASIK.
Untangling the Terminology
LASIK with IntraLase™ is the trademarked name for a blade-free LASIK procedure using the most widely trusted femtosecond laser system from Abbott Medical Optics. It is also marketed under the registered terms "iLASIK® or intraLASE®." It is important to note that although some vision centers advertise "blade-free", "bladeless" or "all-laser LASIK", the IntraLase™ designation refers to the exclusive combination of the sophisticated Wavefront (CustomVue) diagnostic tool along with bladeless flap creation using the highly advanced iFS™ laser.
How does LASIK with IntraLase™ differ from Standard LASIK?
In traditional LASIK a blade instrument, or "microkeratome," is used to create a thin flap in the outermost layer of the eye called the cornea, which is then lifted out-of-the-way while a second laser reshapes the corneal surface. During LASIK with IntraLase™ a corneal flap is created, not with a blade, but with a special laser that emits tiny, ultra-precise low energy pulses of light. This manner of flap creation is considered a superior method, as it produces a stronger flap that is also easier for the surgeon to lift. Abbott Medical also suggests that this reduces irritation to the corneal tissue and ultimately leads to fewer complications such as a slipped flap, and a speedier visual recovery.
LASIK with IntraLase™ at Woodhams Eye Clinic
The exclusive combination of Wavefront Custom(Vue) during the diagnostic phase and the use of the iFS™ laser for bladeless flap creation during surgery, means that the highest levels of precision and accuracy can be achieved when correcting each patient's unique refractive errors. There is also a decreased likelihood of complications with the IntraLase™ method compared to standard LASIK. The only vision correction laser that is integrated with the Wavefront Custom(Vue) is the Visx Star S4 also by Abbott Medical Optics. Given these compelling features, Woodhams has chosen to use iFS™ IntraLase® and the Visx lasers and software for all its LASIK surgeries. In fact, Dr. J. Trevor Woodhams was the very first eye surgeon in the state of Georgia to perform the LASIK with IntraLase™ procedure and Woodhams now boasts thousands of success stories from patients who have had this highly effective and customized procedure.
Is IntraLase™ the Answer?
Because the IntraLase™ method is thought to produce greater biomechanical stability of the corneal flap, it is often recommended for patients who have additional challenges such as thin corneas, large pupils or strong prescriptions. Most patients can benefit from the advantages of having their vision correction performed with the IntraLase™ method though, including the decreased likelihood of complications and the lack of dependence on a blade to cut the corneal flap.
As with any decision regarding your eye health, the best approach is to consult with your eye care professional who can advise you on the best solution for your particular issues and needs.
Would you like to talk to someone here at Woodhams about LASIK? Enter your information below and one of our patient care advocates will reach out to you or you can call us at 770-394-4000.
