Femtosecond laser LASIK flap preparation with conical incision and positional spikes

J Cataract Refract Surg. 2004 May;30(5):1107-8. doi: 10.1016/j.jcrs.2003.09.072.

Abstract

Purpose: To describe the creation of corneal flaps for laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) with conical incisions and positional spikes that may increase postoperative rotational flap stability.

Setting: University Eye Department.

Methods: A corneal flap was prepared in 5 freshly enucleated porcine eyes using a femtosecond laser. In the first step, the flap bed with a diameter of 8.0 mm was created by an intrastromal incision running parallel to the corneal surface. In the second step, a posterior-anterior incision was created with a diameter of 8.0 mm at the level of the first incision and 7.0 mm at the corneal surface. In addition, a hinge and 3 spikes were prepared in the flap with corresponding notches in the surrounding tissue.

Results: In all eyes, the corneal flaps were prepared easily within 5 minutes.

Conclusion: Femtosecond laser technology allowed a new type of LASIK flap formation with conical incisions and positional spikes.

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Corneal Stroma / surgery*
  • Keratomileusis, Laser In Situ / methods*
  • Surgical Flaps*
  • Swine