Posters

Advancing cataract and refractive surgical and therapeutic applications through new ophthalmic laser technology

Poster Details

First Author: S.Rowen USA

Co Author(s):    A. Hipsley   L. Gualdi   S. Shah   R. Ang   M. Jackson        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate and compare the characteristics of the past & present lasers in ophthalmology and the role of advanced biophotonics in cataract and refractive surgery as well as ocular therapies.

Setting:

Clinical Research Institute of Laser Medicine, Ulm Germany.

Methods:

A comparison and evaluation was conducted of the lasers used historically in ophthalmology and the evolution of new wavelengths being used now and those on the horizon of the future. A comparison of clinical outcomes is offered as evidence of the value proposition of supporting innovation in ophthalmology. We further define and describe the laser tissue interaction of each wavelength related to its use in ophthalmology. The impact of these exciting biophotonic advances on new safety and precision standards in cataract, refractive, and presbyopic surgery is also discussed.

Results:

The use of lasers in ophthalmology have proven effective modalities for treating various refractive disorders, retinal disorders, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. Advances in ophthalmic laser technology has minimized iatrogenic damage while maintaining therapeutic effects and has evolved significantly since its introduction more than half a century ago. These innovations have included both optimizations of laser parameters in addition to the development of novel laser delivery systems. This review summarizes recent innovations in retinal laser technology, including subthreshold micropulse laser, selective laser therapy, selective wavelengths, innovative modes of laser delivery including pattern scanning lasers, and newly developed diode lasers.

Conclusions:

Lasers have been used successfully in ophthalmology for almost 3 decades with the most utilized being Excimer lasers. However, as photonics technology and delivery systems become more sophisticated other wavelengths are being explored, applied and even returning to the ophthalmic field of use. The expansion of new wavelengths such as femtosecond lasers, diode pumped solid state technologies as well as new laser wavelenghts open many treatment opportunities and clinical applications that were not possible before.

Financial Disclosure:

... receives consulting fees, retainer, or contract payments from a company producing, developing or supplying the product or procedure presented