What is it?
A precision coreal cutter is a specialized surgical instrument used in LASIK (laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis) eye surgery to create a thin flap in the cornea. This flap is gently folded back to expose the underlying corneal tissue so it can be sculpted by an excimer laser to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. After laser treatment, the corneal flap is carefully placed back in its original position to naturally heal.
Precision Coreal Cutter Design
The precision coreal cutter resembles a thin mechanical blade mounted on an oscillating arm. At the tip of the blade is a precision cutting edge only micrometers thick. When activated, the precision coreal cutter glides smoothly across the curved surface of the cornea creating a smoothly contoured flap with consistent thickness. Advancements in precision coreal cutter technology have led to laser-guided device integration for higher levels of precision and reproducibility.
Creating the Corneal Flap
During LASIK surgery, the eye specialist first uses instruments to gently secure the eyelids open. Anesthetic drops are applied to numb the cornea. The precision coreal cutter is then positioned on the central cornea and activated. It makes a single smooth pass, precisely cutting a very thin hinged flap. High-speed suction rings stabilize the cornea during the cutting process, allowing creation of a flawlessly smooth surface. Modern precision coreal cutter are able to cut flaps as thin as 100-microns for maximum correction range.
Ensuring a Safe Procedure
Use of a microkeratome provides surgeons excellent control over creating the initial corneal flap. Unlike older flap creation techniques like the blade or automated blunt precision coreal cutter, the oscillating precision blade reduces potential risks. Advanced device features like optical tracking and safety braking mechanisms minimize chances of errors. The self-limiting cutting depth and consistent results also help maximize procedure safety. The thin uniform flaps allow for highly precise laser treatment and virtually painless post-op visual recovery.
Advantages over Laser Assisted Flap Creation
While newer femtosecond lasers can also be used to create the corneal flap, precision coreal cutter continue offering distinct advantages. They provide a smooth contiguous surface ideal for laser sculpting and self-sealing after repositioning the flap. The process is also faster and more cost-effective than laser flap creation. Precision coreal cutter are also better suited for thin flap requirements, with no risk of localized laser tissue effects. With continual improvements focused on enhanced safety, precision coreal cutter remain the standard choice for many surgeons performing high volumes of refractive eye surgery.
In Summary
The microkeratome plays a vital role in delivering the precise corneal flap needed for effective LASIK vision correction. As a manually guided oscillating blade device, it enables surgeons to customize corneal refractive procedures while maximizing patient safety. Integrated safety features and continual design refinements have established the precision coreal cutter as a trusted technology helping people around the world achieve clear vision without glasses or contacts. Its consistent results, speed and smooth flap creation technique ensure it will remain the preferred choice for many LASIK experts worldwide.
