From: anonymous@infoserv.iserv.com.br
Subject: LASIK
Posted-By: xx102 (Eye Clinic Moderator)
Organization: Organization For Community Networks
Date: Sun, 14 Apr 1996 03:23:34 GMT
Newsgroups: ofcn.clinic.eye-doctor

I am a Medical Doctor in Brazil
I would like to know yor opinion about LASIK in Miopic Surgery with Excimer Laser

Regards

Answered by Richard E. Gans, M. D. (reg@ofcn.org)

LASIK is a relatively new surgical/laser procedure to correct refractive errors. LASIK is an acronym, or abbreviation, which means "laser assisted in situ keratomileusis".

It is a combination of a conventional surgical "cutting" procedure and an EXCIMER laser procedure. Currently, LASIK is not approved for general use in the United States. Thus, I have little experience with it. Nevertheless, it is reported to have some distinct advantages over conventional EXCIMER laser photorefractive keratectomy. It can correct a larger range of refractive errors. Vision is reported to improve and stabilize more rapidly.

At the same time, there are some specific negative aspects to LASIK. It is technically more difficult to perform. It requires more surgical equipment than a standard laser procedure. It has a greater risk of surgical complication secondary to the "cutting" part of the procedure.

Considerable clinical experience will be necessary before LASIK will gain approval in this country. Until then, I will have to postpone making a personal decision with regard to its safety and efficacy.

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Copyright, 1996. Richard E. Gans, M. D. All rights reserved.

                   Richard E. Gans, M. D.
          Diplomate, American Board of Ophthalmology
       Medical Director, The Health and Wellness Center
              OFCN Primary Sysop, The Eye Clinic 

Email: reg@ofcn.org
WWW: http://www.ofcn.org:80/about.ofcn/whois/reg/
Mail: 26900 Cedar Road Suite #108
Beachwood, OH USA 44122-1148

NOTICE: OFCN is not engaged in the rendering of professional medical services. The information contained on this system or any other OFCN system should not supplant individual professional consultation. It is offered exclusively as a community education service. Advice on individual problems must be obtained directly from a professional.

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