US 2010/0249762 A1 · System for Performing Intrastromal Refractive Surgery

Abstract

A system for performing intrastromal ophthalmic laser surgery requires Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) of stromal tissue without compromising Bowman's capsule (membrane). In detail, the system is computer-controlled to create symmetrical cuts in the stroma relative to a defined axis of the eye. Importantly, these cuts are all distanced from the axis. The actual location and number of cuts in the surgery will depend on the degree of visual aberration being corrected. Further, the system may create different types of cuts in the stroma. For example, the symmetrical cuts (by type) may include cylindrical, radial or annular layer cuts. The different type cuts may be intersecting or non-intersecting depending on the visual aberration being treated.

Claims15

Dependent claims

A system for performing intrastromal laser refractive surgery on an eye defining an axis, the system comprising:

a laser unit for generating a pulsed laser beam to provide for the Laser Induced Optical Breakdown (LIOB) of tissue at successive focal spots in the stroma;
a device for stabilizing the eye, to hold the axis of the eye substantially stationary during the surgery;
a computer program, wherein the computer program defines at least one cut into the stromal tissue of the eye, with each cut being in a symmetrical relationship with the axis and being disconnected from other cuts having a different symmetry;
and
a computer electronically connected with the laser unit for using the computer program to move the focal spot of the laser beam through the stroma to create the cuts in the stroma.

2 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

System for Performing Intrastromal Refractive Surgery

Life of this patent

System for Performing Intrastromal Refractive Surgery

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims15