Eyeworld

EW REFRACTIVE SURGERY September 2014 73 worked out. Dr. Doane said that the exact range of the technique is not currently known, and it is uncertain if compound myopic astigmatism, mixed astigmatism, and simple or compound hyperopic astigmatism can all be treated. Another issue is how to enhance patients undergoing this technique if that need arises. "At present we are left with creating a LASIK flap by extension of the small incision of SMILE and reflecting the flap and ablating with an excimer laser in a LASIK-like retreatment, or we have to do PRK," he said. When compared with LASIK, the visual recovery after SMILE is slightly slower, Dr. Thompson said. Additionally, the lenticule extraction requires the surgeon to be comfort- able with lamellar corneal dissec- tion, so this means there would be a learning curve. "Like any surgery there are risks," he said. "When dissecting in a lamellar fashion, if the surgeon is too aggressive or if there is an undiagnosed corneal scar, a cap perforation can occur in the SMILE procedure just like a flap perforation can occur in LASIK." Does SMILE have the potential to replace LASIK? Dr. Doane thinks that SMILE has the potential to replace or compete com- mercially with LASIK "for simple and compound myopia of all ranges that is suitable for corneal refractive surgery." The technique has great predictability for both higher and lower corrections. "As of February 2014, more than 100,000 SMILE procedures have been performed worldwide and more than 300 surgeons are certified," Dr. Doane said. Despite hesitation and skepticism early on, he thinks that SMILE is now an accepted contender in refractive surgery in the U.S. Dr. Thompson thinks that the SMILE procedure has the potential to help numerous patients. "I predict that, like PRK and LASIK, we will find the best refrac- tive errors and corneas to treat and that all 3 will coexist as options for patients who desire to lessen their dependency on optical devices," he said. "The SMILE procedure is an exciting new procedure and like anything new, it deserves critical study and long-term follow-up. The early results have been very promising." EW Editors' note: Drs. Doane and Thompson have financial interests with Carl Zeiss Meditec. Contact information Doane: jdoane@discovervision.com Thompson: vance.thompson@vancethompsonvision.com We treat you like family ! Tired of automated phone trees when you need technical support? Communicate directly with a specialist when you contact OCULUS. Exceptional Customer Care from Coast to Coast ! Phone +1 888-519-5375 ads@oculususa.com www.oculususa.com Management Precision, Reliability, Innovation. German engineering with passion and tradition. Family-owned since 1895! That's OCULUS. Local Support The local OCULUS representatives are by your side. These experts will demonstrate the products in your clinic prior to purchase and help you make efficient use of your OCULUS product after purchase. Premium Service We bundle our high-quality products with premium service. This includes service centers on the East and the West Coasts, 8:00 am to 8:00 pm EST phone support, FREE Online technical support and FREE software updates. Education We understand the importance of education. That is why we dedicate our resources to organize FREE webinars and certification programs, and sponsor many seminars and workshops every year.

• Cover