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Epithelial separator designed for LASEK
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CLEVELAND — A microkeratome developed for use in laser epithelial keratomileusis is showing promise in animal studies, according to a poster presentation here.
In a poster at the International Congress on LASEK and Advanced Surface Ablation, Frank A. Lattanzio, PhD, of Norfolk, Va., described the use of a subepithelial separator (SES) to create epithelial flaps in rabbit eyes. The purpose of the device is to reduce the surgeon learning curve in creation of epithelial flaps and to decrease flap variability.
The microkeratome — a plastic, oscillating blade — is driven at high frequency across the corneal epithelium. The epithelium is separated from the stroma without the need for the operator to position the blade to cut at an exact depth. According to Dr. Lattanzio’s poster, the plastic blade automatically adjusts for changes in epithelial cell depth.
Outcomes from long-term testing of corneal epithelial flap reattachment will determine whether the microkeratome will improve LASEK outcomes, the poster concluded.
The Zeus SES Microkeratome is in development for use in LASEK by CIBA Vision Ophthalmics.