Routine Lasik eye surgery generally involves two basic steps; creating a flap in the cornea, and reshaping the cornea with the excimer laser. In Lasik the corneal flap is traditionally cut with a mechanical microkeratome blade.
The primary difference in traditional Lasik and IntraLasik is in the method of cutting the corneal flap. IntraLasik (also know as "All Laser Lasik") utilizes a computer programmed femtosecond laser microkeratome as opposed to a mechanical microkeratome blade to create the corneal flap.
Utilizing IntraLasik software, the flap is cut with an infrared laser to an exact pre-programmed depth and position. The laser does not alter the corneal curvature, affect the prescription, or cause damage too surrounding tissue.
The obvious huge advantage to IntraLasik is the predictability and precision of the corneal flap cut. This translates into a much lower possibility of flap related complications such as corneal abrasion, thin flap, thick flap, partial flap, incorrect diameter, or buttonhole flaps. Some recent studies have also suggested that Intralasik provides better vision contrast sensitivity.
Minor possible disadvantages of IntraLasik include temporary eye redness, increased corneal edema, and photosensitivity. Al of these issues generally resolve during the healing period.
While IntraLasik is an option for most who are seeking laser eye corrective surgery, it may be a requirement for some individuals whose pre existing medical conditions require the greater precision offered with IntraLasik.