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Femtosecond laser shows efficacy in performing arcuate incisions for astigmatic correction
 Rudy Nuijts |
PRAGUE — A multicenter study of 70 eyes showed feasibility of the femtosecond laser in performing arcuate incisions for astigmatic correction at the time of cataract surgery.
"Astigmatism up to 1.25 D may be found in around 30% of eyes undergoing cataract surgery. If you look at lower values, up to 0.75 D, it may occur in 40% of eyes. Since even low degrees of astigmatism can impact patient satisfaction, there is a role in managing it at the same time of cataract surgery," Rudy Nuijts, MD, said at the winter meeting of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons.
Incisional techniques are not frequently used in Europe, but the capability of the femtosecond laser in performing arcuate incisions with increased precision and reproducibility may refresh the technique and make it more appealing to surgeons.
"Laser arcuate incisions are customizable and adjustable. You can open them during the procedure but also do a topography the day after and adjust them at the slit lamp," Dr. Nuijts said.
In the study, incision depth was set between 80% and 90%, diameter was between 9 mm and 11 mm, and various laser settings and nomograms were used.
"Steps of the procedure are plan the laser treatment, program the pattern, mark the cardinal axis in the upright position, dock the laser, align the cardinal axis, measure corneal thickness at the exact location, and start the laser," Dr. Nuijts said. After the procedure, 76% of the eyes had main residual astigmatism of 0.5 D or less.
- Disclosure: Dr. Nuijts is a consultant for Alcon.