Benefits of Modern SBK Microkeratome

#LASIK

22/06/2023

Understanding the Benefits of Modern SBK Microkeratome for LASIK Flap Creation

When it comes to performing LASIK surgery, anterior-segment eye surgeons are always looking for the best tools to create the perfect corneal flap. While traditional microkeratomes have been the go-to instruments for many years, the latest advancements in technology have brought about the modern SBK microkeratome, which offers additional benefits for surgeons and their patients alike.

This article explores all the advantages of using modern SBK microkeratomes for LASIK flap creation, as well as how they differ from traditional microkeratomes.

What is a Microkeratome?

First, let's start by understanding the basics of what a microkeratome is and how it works. A microkeratome is a surgical device used to create a corneal flap during LASIK surgery. It consists of a handpiece that moves across the corneal surface, cutting a precise flap that can be lifted to allow access to the underlying stromal tissue for the consecutive photoablation by an excimer laser.

Traditional vs. Modern Microkeratomes

Traditional microkeratomes have been used for LASIK flap creation for years. They typically consist of a motorized or manually-driven blade that cuts the flap at a fixed depth, typically around 130-180 microns. While effective, traditional microkeratomes do have their limitations, such as the risk of buttonholes or incomplete flaps if not used with precision by experienced surgeons.

Modern SBK microkeratome, on the other hand, is designed to consistently create thinner, more precise flaps, with a very tight standard deviation around 100 microns. This is achieved through a different cutting technique, where the blade oscillates at high speeds, creating a uniform pass over the corneal surface to create a smoother and almost planar flap, similarly to a femtosecond laser.

There are several advantages to using modern SBK microkeratome for LASIK flap creation over conventional microkeratomes:

1. Enhanced Safety

The uniform cutting technique used by modern SBK microkeratome reduces the risk of complications such as buttonholes or incomplete flaps. This is because the blade is less likely to get stuck or deviate from its intended path, resulting in a more uniform cut.

2. Greater Precision

Modern SBK microkeratome is designed to create thinner, more precise flaps, resulting in a more accurate and predictable outcome for patients. This gain of precision also reduces the risk of postoperative complications such as epithelial ingrowth or corneal ectasia.

3. Faster Healing Time

Due to the thinner nature of the flap created by modern SBK microkeratome, patients may experience a faster healing time compared to conventional microkeratomes. This is because the thinner flap requires less time for the corneal tissue to re-adhere, resulting in a quicker recovery period.

4. Superior Visual Outcomes

The thinner and more precise corneal flap created by modern SBK microkeratome may also result in superior visual outcomes for patients. This is because the flap allows for a smoother transition between the corneal tissue layers, resulting in less risk of induced visual aberrations or distortions.

In conclusion, modern SBK microkeratome offers an additional range of benefits for anterior-segment eye surgeons when it comes to LASIK flap creation. The enhanced safety, greater precision, faster healing time, and superior visual outcomes make it a valuable tool in performing successful LASIK surgeries. As technology continues to evolve, we can only expect to see further advancements in microkeratome design and functionality in years to come.

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Last update: 22/04/2024

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