Intralase performs one millionth blade-free LASIK procedure
Irvine, CA - September 7th, 2006 - A select number of ophthalmic surgeons utilizing the newest LASIK technology have contributed toward the milestone one millionth all-laser LASIK procedure- using the IntraLase Method, confirming that the demand for IntraLase FS laser technology is at an all-time high, according to IntraLase Corp. (NASDAQ: ILSE).
“We have seen a significant improvement in our visual acuity outcomes and a meaningful reduction in our LASIK complication rate using the IntraLase Method,” said one LASIK doctor using the new LASIK technology. “The blade-free approach is a very comforting message to patients, since it addresses one of their primary obstacles - fear of the surgery. Offering the IntraLase all-laser LASIK platform has been a very positive experience for our patients, referring doctors and surgeons.”
The IntraLase FS laser technology has been adopted by such top ophthalmic teaching institutes as Duke University Medical School, the Wilmer Eye Institute at Johns Hopkins, the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute at University of Miami, and Stanford University, all of which use the technology to train future generations of LASIK surgeons.
Blade-Free Safety and Better Vision with All-Laser LASIK
According to one LASIK doctor, the 4th Generation IntraLase FS laser uses an infrared light beam, generating 60,000 pulses per second, to prepare the intracorneal bed and create the corneal flap in the first step of LASIK.
• Using an “inside-out” process, the laser beam is precisely focused to a point within the cornea.
• The laser pulses then create thousands of microscopic bubbles which define the incision within the intracorneal surface.
• Along the edge, bubbles are then stacked up at a beveled angle - a feature unique to the IntraLase Method - to the corneal surface to complete the flap.
• From start to finish, the IntraLase Method typically takes 15 - 30 seconds.
• The physician then exposes the prepared corneal bed for excimer laser treatment (the second step of LASIK) by lifting the flap.
• The LASIK procedure is complete when the flap is securely repositioned on its beveled edge.
With the IntraLase laser, the surgeon can precisely control the critical first step of LASIK. Physician-programmed laser specifications include flap diameter, depth, hinge location and width, and side-cut architecture - factors which can be varied to meet patients’ needs. The IntraLase laser creates a distinctive beveled-edge flap, which allows for precise repositioning, alignment and seating after LASIK is completed. This feature reduces the risk of flap displacement, a complication seen with microkeratome flaps.
“The IntraLase laser makes LASIK safer by replacing the hand-held microkeratome blade with the computer-guided precision of a laser,” said one LASIK surgeon, noting that the completion of approximately -one million IntraLase Method procedures demonstrates an impressive safety profile for patients. LASIK with the advanced IntraLase Method, he added, also has been clinically proven to deliver better visual outcomes in both standard and Custom LASIK procedures with more patients achieving visual acuity of 20/20, 20/15 and even 20/12.5.
About IntraLase Corp.
IntraLase designs, develops, and manufactures an ultra-fast laser that is revolutionizing refractive and corneal surgery by creating safe and more precise corneal incisions. Delivering on the promise of ophthalmic laser technology, the IntraLase FS laser, related software, and disposable devices replace the hand-held microkeratome blade used during LASIK surgery. The unsurpassed accuracy of IntraLase’s computer-controlled femtosecond laser has been shown to improve safety profiles and visual outcomes when used during LASIK. Additionally, the IntraLase FS laser creates precision-designed intracorneal incisions that when combined can be used during lamellar and penetrating keratoplasty, and intrastromal ring implantation. IntraLase is presently in the process of commercializing applications of its technology in the treatment of corneal diseases that require corneal transplant surgery. The company’s proprietary laser and disposable patient interfaces are presently marketed throughout the United States and 32 other countries. IntraLase is headquartered and manufactures its products in Irvine, California. For additional information, visit the company’s web site: www.intralase.com.