New patient interface betters femtosecond laser

Mannheim, Germany-The new patient interface (SoftFit) for the LenSx femtosecond laser (Alcon Laboratories) is elegant technology that improves usability and performance of the laser, according to Michael C. Knorz, MD.

The novel patient interface (PI) is a single piece comprised of a hydrogel contact lens that is placed into the applanation cone before it is put onto on the eye. It was designed to prevent corneal folds that can be created by applanation or compression from a PI and that can interfere with laser energy delivery.

To assess the clinical performance of the new PI, Dr. Knorz-professor of ophthalmology, medical faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany, and Stephen G. Slade, MD, Slade & Baker Vision Center, Houston-conducted a study that enrolled 215 consecutive eyes undergoing laser-refractive cataract surgery using the LenSx system.

In each case, they evaluated usability of the PI, presence of corneal wrinkles as a marker of compression, and rated the completeness/quality of the capsulotomy. For the latter assessments, the capsulotomy was to be graded as to whether it was:

·      Free floating

·      The laser cut was complete but had to be verified as such by pushing on the capsule with a cannula

·      Featured microadhesions/perforations

·      Showed distinct uncut areas

The results showed 98% of eyes were free from wrinkles and 100% had a free-floating capsulotomy. The surgeons’ impressions on usability were very positive.

“The novel PI is easier for the surgeon and better for the patient,” Dr. Knorz said. “It requires no fluid or on-the-eye assembly to join the PI to the suction ring, and so docking is easier. In addition, there is no fogging with this new PI, and it provides a secure fit to prevent eye movement. It is also very comfortable for patients because it creates gentle suction while minimizing corneal folds.”

Dr. Knorz also noted that the LenSx laser PI is smaller than that of competitor platforms, therefore, it fits easily on a wide range of eyes.

For more articles in this issue of Ophthalmology Times eReport, click here.

To receive weekly clinical news and updates in ophthalmology, subscribe to the Ophthalmology Times eReport.