SMALL INCISION LENTICULE EXTRACTION (SMILE) PROCEDURE FOR THE CORRECTION OF MYOPIA AND MYOPIC ASTIGMATISM Essay

Abstract

Myopia was first treated with an excimer laser in 1988 using the photorefractive keratectomy technique. Photorefractive keratectomy is extremely accurate but usually involves a period of pain and visual recovery and is known to cause corneal haze and regression of the refractive correction in some cases. In the 1990s the combination of a microkeratome and an excimer laser (for the refractive cut) was developed, further improving the predictability of the refractive procedure. This procedure, known as laser assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) has gained wide acceptance worldwide. LASIK has become the standard technique for treating refractive errors for the past decade because its efficacy and refractive stability have been demonstrated. enables faster visual rehabilitation so patients can quickly return to normal activities. However, this procedure has side effects including dry eye, ectasia, traumatically loosened flap, transient light sensitivity and keratectasia. There has been a growing level of interest in recent years surrounding the application of FSL only surgery for myopic and astigmatic correction.

FSLs emit ultra-short light pulses at high frequenci