Excimer Lasers: The Pinnacle of Modern Medical Technology?

On February 25, 2009 the American Journal of Ophthalmology released its 10 year follow-up on its study of Excimer laser ablation for myopia in thin corneas. The initial tests proved that the laser could safely and effectively correct myopia in very thin corneas and the follow-up now confirms that correction in this procedure provides “stable visual and refractive outcomes” after 10 years.

10 years is an incredibly long time for technology to remain prevalent and useful. In celebration of the Excimer laser’s effectiveness over a 10 year run, here’s some great blog entries on the Excimer laser, how it has changed, and how different ophthalmologists use it today.

• The AJO’s 10 Year Follow-Up Report – See the results for yourself!
• Clearview Eye Center: The Excimer Laser – Clear definition of the Excimer laser and some uses from the Clearview Eye Center.
• The LASIK Directory: Wavefront LASIK – The Allegretto Wave Excimer Laser System is one of four ways to perform Wavefront or Custom LASIK, which has an astounding number of benefits.
• NASA Approves Wave-Front Guided LASIK – NASA follows the U.S. Navy’s decision to approve Excimer laser technology for use on astronauts.
• LASIK vs. ASA – The Allegretto Excimer Laser is used in both procedures, offering alternatives for ultra-thin corneas.
• What’s That? – A Flickr photo from the Puzzle Series. Photo shows a cut in the head of a matchstick made by a Raydiance laser, similar to the Excimer laser.
• Carter Eye Center: Custom LASIK – Another center that uses the Excimer laser for its Custom LASIK procedure.

What do you think of the Excimer laser? Are there other pinnacles of modern technology you think apply to LASIK surgery and ophthalmology? Please feel free to leave comments and suggestions!