This procedure is often called the “no blade, no cut” method of Lasik surgery.
EPI – Lasik surgery uses a mechanical microkeratome (surgical instrument used for making an incision) with a blunt, instead of a sharp, blade. This blunt blade slides across the front of the cornea and scrapes up a sheet of epithelium at the surface of the Bowman’s layer. This is an epithelial flap. The flap is moved out of the way similar to Lasik, the laser treats the exposed area, and then the epithelial flap is repositioned.
Distinction
The EPI Lasik procedure maintains the structural integrity of the stroma and minimizes the discomfort, while speeding up the recovery process and eliminating the incidence of haze
associated with conventional procedures such as PRK and LASEK.
Suitability
EPI- Lasik surgery is ideal for patients suffering from flat, steep, or thin corneas. It may be recommended for older patients whose epithelium displays the potential for an “epithelial slide” with LASIK. EPI Lasik is also indicated in patients having basement membrane dystrophies.
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