Epi-LASIK
Avoids Using Alcohol To Remove The Cornea's Outer Layer
Performed for the first time in September 2003,
Epi-LASIK corrective eye surgery was developed in order to address
some of the problems and issues that arose from using traditional
LASIK and LASEK procedures. Epi-LASIK procedures are recommended
in certain instances, but it is not for everyone. While Epi-LASIK
is considered to be an effective procedure to correct vision troubles,
there are still risks involved that every potential patient should
be aware of.
In order to understand the new developments that
Epi-LASIK surgery utilizes, it is important to understand LASIK
and LASEK eye procedures. LASIK eye surgery uses a microkeratome
cutting tool or laser to cut the cornea; an initial cut on the
cornea creates a flap which exposes the underlying tissues. This
flap is folded back and then replaced after the cornea receives
laser treatment to correct visual problems. LASEK eye procedures
use a finer blade, a trephine blade, to cut the upper epithelial
cells on the cornea. A hinge is left in place and the surgeon
uses alcohol to loosen the cells so they can be folded back; then,
as with LASIK eye surgery, a laser is used to adjust the shape
of the cornea.
Epi-LASIK utilizes the best features of LASIK
and LASEK procedures. During the Epi-LASIK procedure, an epi-keratome
blade is used to cut the surface of the cornea just below the
epithelial cell layer. Next, a small tool is used to fold back
the hinged flap; using a tool instead of alcohol to remove this
flap reduces the chances of developing irritation or allergic
reactions after the surgery. Once the flap is folded back, a laser
is used to correct the cornea. Persons who have extremely thin
corneas should not receive Epi-LASIK eye treatments, and some
persons have visual irregularities that are outside of a fixable
range for Epi-LASIK procedures.
Epi-LASIK
if often considered best for patients who engage in physical sports
or hobbies, and for patients who have sufficient amounts of tissue
on their cornea. Epi-LASIK surgery can be performed on patients
who are not good candidates for traditional LASIK eye surgery,
but every case must be evaluated by an ophthalmologist in order
to see if the Epi-LASIK procedure should be used.
