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Femtosecond cataract laser system allows for broad inclusion criteria, surgeon says
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BUSAN, Korea — The wide variety of cases that have undergone laser refractive cataract surgery with a new system in one surgeon’s practice may demonstrate the system’s potential for multiple indications.
 H. Burkhard Dick |
H. Burkhard Dick, MD, presented results of his first 420 cases with the Catalys (OptiMedica) system at APAO/SOE 2012.
“My personal opinion is, the currently regarded contraindications and limitations … are, for me, the indications for laser refractive cataract surgery,” he said.
The system allows for “all-comer” cases, and Dr. Dick has not set any exclusion criteria thus far. He has handled a subset of complex cases, including white cataracts, pediatric cases, small non-dilating pupils, and eyes with Fuchs’ dystrophy and corneal guttata, using the Catalys with good results.
Dr. Dick said the features of the system that allow for a varied group of cases include its precise femtosecond laser with lens softening; a Liquid Optics interface, which is especially helpful in small eyes; and the integral guidance and integrated bed.
“Key features enable broad inclusion criteria and treatment of complex cases,” he said. “Of course, more studies are needed, but my personal experience is that this is going to be a femto world.”
He has also had a low complication rate with his first 400 cases, with one anterior radial tear and one posterior capsule tear and vitreous loss.
- Disclosure: Dr. Dick is on the medical advisory board of OptiMedica.