Femtosecond lasers in ophthalmology

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Laser Surgery
• Corneal Surgery

Background:

• Femtosecond lasers utilize near-infrared pulses for precise tissue ablation.
• They offer minimal collateral tissue damage compared to traditional methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current applications and advancements of femtosecond lasers in clinical ophthalmology.
• To highlight the expanding role of femtosecond laser technology in various ophthalmic procedures.

Main Methods:

• Perspective review of existing literature.
• Inclusion of authors' clinical and laboratory findings.
• Commentary on the current state and future potential of femtosecond lasers.

Main Results:

• Femtosecond lasers are currently used for LASIK flaps, lamellar keratoplasty, and corneal biopsies.
• Applications include donor button cutting, trephination, and intracorneal ring segment tunnel creation.
• Emerging uses involve flapless refractive surgery, keratoprosthesis insertion, glaucoma surgery, and lens procedures.

Conclusions:

• Continuous advancements in ultra-fast laser technology enhance surgical safety and efficiency.
• Femtosecond lasers demonstrate increasing versatility and improved outcomes in ophthalmic surgery.