Ultrafast all–solid–state lasers for mini–invasive eye surgery

Abstract

Abstract: : Purpose:Diode pumped all–solid–state ultrafast lasers are promising for mini–invasive refractive surgery and keratoplasty. The fundamental systematical study concerning ultrafast laser–tissue interactions is crucial before applying the state–of–art laser technology to ophthalmic applications. Methods: Porcine eye samples were treated with a excimer laser, a Nd:YAG picosecond laser and a Nd:glass femtosecond laser. The laser pulsewidth ranges from nano– to femtosecond. The precision, efficiency and side effects of cornea ablation were quantitatively evaluated based on the microscopic investigations with confocal laser scanning microscopy, multiphoton microscopy and atomic force microscopy. Results: Ultrashort laser pulse demonstrated improved surgical precision, minimized side effects and reproducible surgical output. The optimal laser parameters for refractive surgery regarding pulse duration, pulse energy and focusing optics were obtained. Conclusions:Compared to today’s nanosecond excimer laser, ultrafast lasers offers unique advantages including reduced collateral effects, improved surgical precision and intrastromal accessibility. They can be particularly useful for intrastromal vision corrections, glaucoma treatment and photodynamic therapy.

Keywords: refractive surgery • laser • cornea: basic science