FDA clearance granted for femtosecond laser

Santa Ana, CA-A new femtosecond laser (iFS, Advanced Medical Optics), which, according to its manufacturer is capable of creating a corneal flap during LASIK in less than 10 seconds, has received FDA clearance. It has been designed to increase postoperative flap adhesion and enhance the biomechanical stability of the post-LASIK cornea.

Some additional features of the laser, according to the company, include a higher repetition rate, tighter spot separation, lower energy, a high-resolution digital video microscope, a new user interface, a keyboard and touch screen, and ergonomic design for maximum surgeon comfort.

"The . . . laser builds upon an 8-year history of innovation and more than two million IntraLase femtosecond procedures performed worldwide," said American Medical Optics (AMO) chairman and chief executive officer Jim Mazzo. "This technology is an integral part of AMO?s proprietary iLASIK technology suite and a tangible example of our commitment to not only maintain a substantial advantage over competing systems, but also to provide technologies that advance the standard of vision care medically."

"The new . . . laser provides the surgeon with the ability to select LASIK flap dimensions customizable to individual refractive errors and corneal anatomy with capabilities such as the elliptical flap option, inverted bevel-in side cut angle, and increased speed," said Perry S. Binder, MD, of the Gordon Binder Weiss Vision Institute in San Diego. "This exciting new laser, combined with the iLASIK technology suite, provides the surgeon with the most advanced technologies to give their patients the safest and best outcomes."