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Femtosecond laser used for penetrating keratoplasty
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HEIDELBERG, Germany — Penetrating keratoplasty performed with a femtosecond laser has been successful in a small series of eyes, according to a press release from 20/10 Perfect Vision.
The Femtec femtosecond laser from 20/10 has been used by Mark Tomalla, MD, of Duisburg, Germany, to perform four cases of penetrating keratoplasty. According to the press release, all four cases showed improved vision postoperatively.
In the laser PK technique, the laser cut begins from the endothelial side of the cornea, unlike in mechanical trephination. Less mechanical stress is exerted on the endothelial cells because the corneal tissue is cut without mechanical pressure or turning movements, according to the press release from 20/10.
The Femtec ultrashort pulse infrared laser technology of 20/10 Perfect Vision uses spot sizes smaller than 1/100 mm and laser pulse durations that are orders of magnitude shorter than those of an excimer laser, information on the company Web site says.
The device has also been used in the preparation of tunnels before implanting intracorneal ring segments and in performing cuts for astigmatic keratoplasty.