Comparison Between Ziemer Laser and Intralase
by Thomas Tooma, M.D.
Ziemer Femto LDV Crystal Line is a relatively new femtosecond laser that is much more advanced than the Intralase. THE SWISS-ENGINEERED ZIEMER FEMTO LDV CRYSTAL LINE LASER has considerable advantages over the Intralase and the traditional blade. Its innovative features increase both comfort and safety, while its ultra-precise technology insures the best and fastest visual recovery.
The procedure takes only a few minutes and most patients notice dramatic improvement of their vision immediately. The Ziemer Laser allows the surgeon to apply the vision correction to a larger area on the cornea (approximately 1 extra mm in diameter). Consequently, the quality of vision - particularly at night, in poor lighting, or reduced contrast conditions, is remarkably improved.
Z Lasik is a two-step, bladeless procedure. With a femtosecond laser, the surgeon creates a thin flap on the cornea. With its extremely high frequency of pulses, the femtosecond laser creates a sequence of overlapping smooth bubbles that separates the layers of the cornea in only a few seconds thus creating an ultra-thin flap. The pulses from the Ziemer laser are significantly smaller than in other lasers such as the Intralase, and it delivers less energy per pulse. In addition these pulses have a high degree of overlap which insures less tissue disruption and a smoother surface. Once the layers of the cornea are separated, the flap (remaining hinged on one side) is then lifted back, uncovering the stroma (third layer of the cornea). Now a second laser known as the Excimer laser performs the actual ablation of the cornea. It reshapes the curvature of the cornea to the desired correction. The flap is then put back in its original position where it adheres naturally. The whole procedure takes only a few minutes. Immediately after the treatment you can open and close your eyes normally. Within a few hours, your vision will be restored.
Advantages of Ziemer Lasik
-Increased comfort and safety
-Ultra precise technology
-Fast visual recovery
-Short procedure time
-Superior vision results immediately
-Better vision at night
-Less glare
LASIK eye surgery is a safe out patient procedure, which helps people get rid of their contact lenses and glasses. 98% of patients report 20/20 or better vision after their surgery. Most people can return to their daily activities one day after their procedure. Patients are advised to continue using lubricating eye drops for 6-month post procedure to help with the healing process of the corneal flap, and to reduce the possibility of developing dry eyes, halos or any other night vision problems.
About the Author
Dr. Thomas Tooma is the Medical Director at NVISION Laser Eye Centers, and has completed over 100,000 Lasik procedures.
Dr. Tooma is the first LASIK surgeon in California to use the Ziemer Femto LDV Crystal Line. http://www.nvisioncenters.com
