New 'Bladeless' LASIK Technique as Effective as Older Method

May 5, 2006

A new study concluded that two different approaches to LASIK laser vision-correction surgery are equally effective six months after the surgery.

The different techniques evaluated in the study included the older method of LASIK correction, mechanical microkeratome, and the new, bladeless method.

"At six months after surgery, there are no differences between the eyes that had bladeless or microkeratome LASIK with respect to visual acuity (vision measured by reading an eye chart), contrast sensitivity (ability to discriminate bright objects from dark objects), or in perception of stray light or glare, such as glare from oncoming headlights," said study investigator and Mayo Clinic ophthalmologist Dr. Sanjay Patel.

The study treated 20 patients who were nearsighted or had astigmatism. Each patient underwent bladeless LASIK in one eye and microkeratome LASIK in the other eye.

According to Patel, while both LASIK procedures offer similar results, the bladeless technique may be potentially safer, although it wasn't evaluated in the study.

"I'd say the short-term outcomes are equal, and the risks are, in theory, less with the bladeless technique, although our study was not designed to compare risks. Bladeless LASIK is potentially safer because of the computer-controlled precision, the ability to visualize the flap (in the eye) being created, and to stop the procedure whenever necessary," Patel said.

However, he did note that the risk of complication with the microkeratome blade occurs in under one percent of all cases.

Patel and his colleagues will continue tracking the patients' eye health and vision for five years.

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