How does IntraLASIK work?
The cornea is a dome-like structure of transparent tissue that extends over the lens, pupil and iris. The cornea’s curvature affects the way incoming light rays are bent so that they focus optimally onto the retina for maximum visual acuity. IntraLASIK software directs the IntraLase® FS Laser to optically focus its beam into a tiny, 1 micron(.001mm) spot of energy that passes harmlessly through the outer layers of the cornea until reaching its exact depth within the stroma (central layer of the cornea). In an “inside out” process, the laser beam creates a separation plane by forming an interconnecting series of bubbles made of carbon dioxide and water vapor. The laser beam stacks a pattern of bubbles along the periphery of the treatment plane, leaving an unseparated section of tissue to act as a hinge. As with a LASIK surgery approach, the surgeon then folds the tissue back to expose the underlying corneal layer to prepare for the excimer laser treatment that will re-shape the cornea.
