What is IntraLase, and is it Better than Conventional Laser Eye Surgery?
It can often be the case that the more you try to learn about Laser eye Surgery, the more confused you become. This is thanks to the seemingly endless jargon, countless brand names, and vast array of apparently different treatments on offer. As a result, you may well end up with more questions than you began with.
Just when you think you might have got your head around Laser Eye Surgery, you might come across another “cutting-edge technology” that you just need to know about. For example, during your research, you might have come across the term “IntraLase”.
But unlike many other products and techniques you might come across, IntraLase really does represent one of the most significant developments in the Laser Eye Surgery field since the introduction of LASIK.
What is IntraLase?
IntraLase is one of the most well-known product names for the femtosecond laser. This is the type of laser that helped to make Laser Eye Surgery one of the most successful and popular elective procedures in the world.
Before the invention of the femtosecond laser, Laser Eye Surgery was performed using a microkeratome. This surgical instrument features an oscillating blade that is used to remove a portion of the corneal epithelium or create the corneal flap associated with LASIK.
To the relief of many prospective clients, this method has largely been phased out. In the early days of the introduction of the femtosecond laser, the procedure was often called “bladeless” or “blade-free” Laser Eye Surgery.
The development of the femtosecond laser not only made Laser Eye Surgery a more appealing prospect to patients, but it also made the procedure safer and more precise, significantly reducing the risk of complications.
IntraLase Vs. Traditional LASIK
In the video below, our expert Laser Eye Surgeon, Mr Glenn Carp, explains IntraLase technology and how the femtosecond laser works.
As Mr Carp explains, ‘IntraLase’ is a kind of femtosecond laser routinely used in modern LASIK procedures. It is one of around six different types of femtosecond lasers available today. All of these lasers can be used to create the corneal flap in LASIK – through which the surgeon removes tissue to reshape the cornea.
Rather than employing a blade to make an incision in the corner, femtosecond lasers create a bubble within the corneal tissue. This bubble separates the tissue, allowing the surgeon to carefully create a flap in the epithelium. Once the procedure is complete, this flap can be put back in place, where it immediately begins to fuse to the surrounding tissue. So, to put it simply, IntraLase is simply an advanced cutting device.
This technology is used at most Laser Eye Surgery clinics today. IntraLase – or other kinds of femtosecond laser – are considered the new standard for LASIK treatment. For example, at London Vision Clinic, bladeless LASIK is used as standard, ensuring the highest level of safety and efficacy.
In addition to AMO IntraLase, other manufacturers of femtosecond lasers include Carl Zeiss VisuMax, and Ziemer FEMTO LDV. Patient outcomes and studies demonstrate that these lasers are valuable in reducing complications and increasing the accuracy of results.
If you have any further questions about IntraLase – or any other Laser Eye Surgery technology – don’t hesitate to contact one of our friendly clinic coordinators. If you are ready to discuss your options, Book a Consultation today.
