Excimer laser vision correction

Laser vision correction is aimed at treating such visual abnormalities as astigmatism, myopia, hypermetropia, presbyopia. At the moment it is a high-tech and effective recovery method that is used everywhere, and thanks to the continuous development of technologies, the spectrum of laser applications is constantly expands. In modern ophthalmology, several methods of vision correction are used, which makes it possible to individually approach the treatment of each patient.

Method definition

The essence of excimer laser vision correction is directed to the effect of the cornea of ​​the eye with the aim of restoring visual acuity.

During the diagnostic examination, almost all deviations are studied and the most effective technique is selected.The following methods are available:

• LASIK or LASIK(laser keratomileus) - with the help of microkeratome, the surface layer of the cornea (flap) is removed and the laser beam modifies the inner layers of the cornea. Because the laser beam is sufficiently thin (approximately 1/500 of the thickness of the hair is removed in one pulse), then by this action the maximum correction accuracy is achieved.
• Femto-LASIK- the procedure for carrying out is not much different from the previous method, but using this technology - femtosecond laser - it is possible to restore not only visual acuity, but also the contrast of the image, brightness, twilight vision.
• Super-LASIK- this is the last "squeak of fashion" in ophthalmic surgery. Through the technology of Custom Vue, you can achieve the highest rate of vision correction. The peculiarity of the technique is that initially an aberrometric analysis is performed, the results of which are all distortions in the human visual system. According to the analysis, the degree of impact of distortions on the quality of vision is automatically determined. After the correction, correcting "all errors" is carried out.
• KFK- this technique is performed on the outer layers of the cornea and is used solely on the basis of medical indications. The procedure itself is not painful, but the rehabilitation period gives a lot of discomfort to the patient.

Laser vision correction can be performed not only on the basis of medical indications, but also at the request of the patient in the absence of contraindications.

When appointed

LASIK, Femto-LASIK, Super-LASIK is conducted at such indications:

• myopia-15 D;
• myopic astigmatism-6;
• hyperopia and hypermetropic astigmatism+6

PRK is appointed in the casepresence of myopiawith indicators -6 Dpt,myopic astigmatism-3 D andfarsightedness+3 D

Before the operation it is necessary to undergo a complete examination of the eyesight, help to find the causes of visual acuity reduction and find the best method for solving the problem.

Full medical examination includes:

• Establishing visual acuity.
• Definition of refraction.
• Measurement of IOP.
• With the help of ultrasound, the internal state of the eyes is examined.
• Characteristics of the cornea.
• Conclusion on the state of the retina of the eye, optic nerve.

Also, experts designate the age range from 18 to 45 years.This is due to the age-related changes in the visual organ. Earlier 18 years the procedure can not be carried out, because the visual apparatus is not yet formed, and after 45 already irreversible changes have started, related to accommodation, intraocular pressure and other.

A comprehensive examination will help to find the causes of visual acuity reduction and establish a diagnosis on the basis of which this or that method of vision correction will be carried out.

Contraindications

Contraindications include:

1. Pregnancy and lactemia- On the background of hormonal surgery, surgery can adversely affect vision.
2. Cataract, glaucoma, inflammation of the cornea, all kinds of infectious lesions of the eyes.
3. Systemic diseases- diabetes mellitus, immunodeficiency, autoimmune diseases.
4. Age restrictions described above.

Discuss with the ophthalmologist the possibility of carrying out the operation, the selection of techniques and other nuances in order to avoid possible complications.

Method of conducting

The most commonly prescribed method of vision correction is Lasik.The laser beam affects the inner layers of the cornea of ​​the eye. In many countries of the world this method is recognized as the most effective, fast and convenient. AThigh-precision instruments and careful control of the equipment, the minimum operation time makes the Lasik method the most used.

Preparation of the patient

This is one of the most important stages of the entire procedure. It should be taken very responsibly.

There are three main steps in preparing the patient for laser correction:

1. Failure to wear contact lenses. It should be done 1-3 weeks before the operation. It all depends on the type of lenses that you use on an ongoing basis.
2. If there are eye diseases, tell your doctor about itto adjust the procedure or change it.
3. Do not use makeup that is for the face.These include various creams, ointments, lotions.

Observing these three important steps, you radically affect the health of the organs of vision in a positive way.If as a result of the preparatory procedures it turns out that you have a contraindication to vision correction, the specialist will find an alternative way to help you.

Preparation of the patient is not only the longest, but also the most important process in this procedure.

Procedure

So, after all the examinations and conclusions of the doctor you are prescribed an operation.The laser acts on the cornea from a few seconds to a minute. Each eye is prepared for about 10 minutes.When the curvature of the cornea changes, a lens resembles a lens, only it is natural, with which the person can see well.

The process itself is based on the formation of a flap of the cornea and its subsequent grinding, after which it is placed in its habitual place.The surgeon takes into account all the specifics of your case, he creates optimal parameters for eye correction.

The beam is controlled by the computer and the program configured for it.An interactive system is used that controls the movement of the eyes, blinking.Because of this, the patient will not be able to blink on purpose, to move his eye, the program will not fail.

The procedure does not last long, but it is good preparation and the right approach that will guarantee the recovery.

Postoperative period

For a speedy recovery, there are a few simple rules that doctors usually prescribe after taking an excimer laser vision correction:

1. Application of eye drops.They are appointed by the doctor on the basis of the procedure used.
2. Do not touch your eyes with your hands for at least a day,and they are forbidden to rub for about three months.
3. Do not wash your face and head for three days.
4. Not exposed to direct sunlight.
5. Cosmetics can only be used after a doctor's permission.
6. Eliminate alcohol use for the duration of antibiotics, if they were written out.

Some people after vision correction can write out occluders.They will help protect the eye from mechanical damage or impacts.

Observance of all postoperative procedures will significantly improve the desired result.

What consequences can there be?

Some patients may experience the following unpleasant factors:

• Deteriorating ability to see in the dark.
• The feeling that there is a foreign object in the eye.
• Excessive discharge of tear fluid.
• Syndrome of a "dry" eye.
• Image or pictures can swim, double.
• Increased sensitivity level.

It is worth noting that such consequences are extremely rare and they happen in the event that the operation was not carried out according to the plan.All these ailments disappear with time or with the help of additional methods. Usually time should pass, sometimes a doctor simply prescribes medicines intended to eliminate the consequences of the operation.

Do not be much afraid of the consequences, they are completely treated and pass completely.

Possible complications after vision correction

Complications are not so many. Basically, they are associated with incorrect technique of conducting operations.Problems can affect those who have performed surgery at an early age.After all, in this case the body continues to grow, eyes develop.Gradual deterioration of eyesight can occur and then you will have to do a second operation.

It is necessary to know that the most dangerous are late complications.It causes a pupil displacement, which can be removed by repeated intervention, but it will be more difficult and not guarantee a high chance of a positive result.

Complications occur mainly with the wrong technique of execution or because the patient is not mature.

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conclusions

Excimer laser vision correction is indicated for most people who suffer from poor vision. Picking up a good clinic and specialist, the patient has every opportunity to regain the health of the visual organs. The specialist is obliged to make a complete picture of the causes of deterioration of vision and to designate only the method that will be effective in the case under consideration. The newest equipment and speed of the procedure guarantee an excellent result.