FLACS

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS) is an advanced technique used in ophthalmology for the removal of cataracts. This method employs a femtosecond laser to perform several key steps of the cataract surgery, enhancing precision and potentially improving outcomes compared to traditional phacoemulsification techniques.

Procedure

The FLACS procedure involves the use of a femtosecond laser to create precise incisions in the cornea, perform the capsulorhexis, and fragment the lens. These steps are critical in cataract surgery and traditionally performed manually by the surgeon. The use of the femtosecond laser allows for greater accuracy and consistency.

Steps Involved

1. Corneal Incisions: The femtosecond laser creates precise incisions in the cornea, which are used to access the cataract. 2. Capsulorhexis: The laser creates a circular opening in the lens capsule, allowing for the removal of the cataract. 3. Lens Fragmentation: The laser breaks up the cloudy lens into smaller pieces, which can then be removed more easily.

Advantages

FLACS offers several advantages over traditional cataract surgery methods:

• Precision: The laser can create more precise and consistent incisions and capsulorhexis.
• Safety: Reduced risk of complications due to the precision of the laser.
• Efficiency: Potentially shorter recovery times and improved visual outcomes.

Disadvantages

Despite its advantages, FLACS also has some drawbacks:

• Cost: The procedure is generally more expensive than traditional cataract surgery.
• Availability: Not all surgical centers are equipped with the necessary technology.
• Learning Curve: Surgeons require additional training to perform FLACS.

History

The development of femtosecond laser technology for use in cataract surgery began in the early 2000s. The first FLACS procedures were performed in the late 2000s, and the technique has since gained popularity due to its potential benefits.

Related Pages

• Cataract
• Phacoemulsification
• Ophthalmology
• Femtosecond laser
• Lens (anatomy)
• Cornea

See Also

• Laser surgery
• Intraocular lens
• Refractive surgery