Correcting Astigmatism with IntraLase

Astigmatism causes blurry or double vision because it creates multiple focal points within the eye. It is caused by an irregularly shaped eye, when the eye is shaped more like a football than a sphere. Astigmatism can occur alone or in conjunction with other refractive error.

Astigmatic keratectomy (AK) is a surgical procedure used to correct astigmatism by making small arch-shaped incisions in the cornea, improving its shape. Currently the procedure is performed with a blade, but as bladeless refractive surgery is becoming the preferred method for vision correction, the potential for using IntraLase to perform AK is being explored, and the results are promising. As IntraLase is approved for deeper surgery in the future it may be effective in correcting even more severe astigmatism.

For more information on the IntraLase procedure, feel free to visit the IntraLase section on the website of Dr. Glenn Kawesch, San Diego LASIK surgeon by clicking here.

Near Vision CK after LASIK

Presbyopia affects most people as they age. It is the inability to see things close up caused by a loss of flexibility in the eye, not to be confused with hyperopia (farsightedness) which is the inability to see things clearly close up due to the shape of the eye. Conductive keratoplasty, sometimes referred to as near vision CK, is a procedure designed to improve presbyopia.

EyeWorld Magazine recently reported that, in an ongoing study, the safety and effectiveness of CK in patients who have previously had LASIK surgery to enhance their vision is being evaluated. So far the results are very promising, showing an improvement in near and intermediate vision as well as a 90% rate of satisfaction with quality of vision and depth perception. There have been no flap complications, a common concern with LASIK patients. FDA approval for this application of CK may be on the horizon.

If you would like to learn more about conductive keratoplasty or other vision correction options, schedule a vision correction consultation at the Carter Eye Center in Dallas, Texas.

Multifocal IOLs

When cataracts are removed the natural lens of the eye is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Ideally a multifocal IOL allows cataract patients to have good distance vision and read without the aid of glasses. A recent study compared multifocal IOLs for reading in different lighting conditions.

Three IOLs, the SA40N and the Tecnis ZM001, both made by Advanced Medical Optics (AMO), and the AcrySof ReStor SA60D3 made by Alcon, were used in the study. 60 patients were involved. The Tecnis provided the best reading in low light. In bright lighting the Tecnis and the Acrysof ReStor provided better reading than the SA40N. Of the three, the Tecnis provided reading acuity and speed in the most versatile lighting conditions.

To read more about LASIK surgery and intraocular lenses, click here to visit the website of ophthalmologist Dr. Rajesh Khanna, MD, of Beverly Hills, California.

Light Sensitivity

Light sensitivity, or photophobia, is an intolerance of any type of light. Genetics, poisoning, disease, eye injuries, eye conditions, medications, and disorders of the central nervous system can all cause light sensitivity.

Light sensitivity often accompanies migraines. It is common in people with albinism, light colored eyes, and those who are completely color blind. For some it is an ongoing part of life and the only relief is to avoid bright light and wear sunglasses.

When photophobia is caused by conditions of the eye, such as cataracts or retinal detachment, treating the underlying condition can resolve the problem. Similarly, if the underlying problem is a medication, it may be possible to switch to a drug that is less problematic.

Sudden and severe light sensitivity can be a sign of a life-threatening problem such as poisoning, meningitis, or even rabies, and you should seek immediate medical attention.

For more information on eye disorders, visit our Eye Disorder page on The LASIK Directory by clicking here.