Our thoughts go out to all those significantly impacted by the pandemic. We are grateful to the scientists and pharmaceutical companies that have developed COVID vaccines that may allow us to resume our normal lives in the future.
As we look forward to better times ahead, it seems appropriate to share with you the latest developments in eye care and surgical techniques, the subject of this newsletter.
Custom Topography-Guided LASIK & PRK
Over 30 years ago, we introduced laser vision correction and have seen a growing interest, as patients treat themselves to a life-changing procedure. Laser vision correction has a long track record of positive outcomes, safety and patient satisfaction.
We are proud to be the first eye care facility in Canada to use Topography-Guided LASIK and Topography-Guided PRK using Phorcides Analytic Engine Software.
This customized software has the potential to improve uncorrected vision better than 20/20 by smoothing topographic corneal irregularities. Over 20,000 topographic data points are used to generate the treatment. In addition, the custom treatment allows for iris registration to compensate for cyclotorsion and centres the treatment over the line of sight versus the centre of the pupil.
Click Here For An Overview of Phorcides Analytic Engine Software
Click Here For Outcomes of Phorcides vs Standard LASIK
Advances in Intraocular Lens Implants
Intraocular lens implants have continued to advance, with new lenses that provide a wider range of vision. Two of the most advanced designs that provide an extended range of vision are the PanOptix and Vivity lenses used for cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange.
Patients enjoy the ability to see their smart phone and computer without the need for reading glasses.
EVO Implantable Contact Lens
Patients with high degrees of myopia and hyperopia that are not candidates for laser vision correction, may benefit from the EVO Implantable Contact Lens. This phakic lens design has a small central opening in the optic, which obviates the need for iridotomies to prevent pupillary-block glaucoma.
To qualify for surgery myopic patients should have an anterior chamber depth of 2.8 mm or greater and hyperopic eyes should have a depth of 3.0 mm or greater.
Corneal Laser for Age-Related Macular Degeneration
Over the past 4 years, we have studied and performed clinical treatments using a new corneal laser for AMD (dry & wet). By altering the corneal shape in the midperiphery, an image can be relocated 5 to 10 degrees to an area outside of the fovea. If this macular area has functioning photoreceptors then vision can be improved.
We recently published our outcomes in a scientific research journal. Outcomes continue to be encouraging.The best candidates are those with bilateral AMD in which the better eye sees 20/80 or less.
Stein RM, Markowitz SN, Berry II MJ, Berry MJ. Corneal laser procedure for vision improvement in patients with late stage dry age-related macular degeneration-a retrospective observational cohort study. F1000Research. 2020 Dec 23;9(1500):1500.
Topography-Guided PRK & Crosslinking (CXL) for Keratoconus
CXL has proven to be the procedure of choice to stabilize corneas in patients with keratoconus. We introduced CXL at Bochner over 13 years ago when the 10-year results in Europe were shown to be safe and effective. Our outcomes have improved over time with a modification of the total UV energy delivered and pulse treatment to allow more oxygen delivery to the cornea. Success at preventing progression with a single treatment has been 98 to 99% in corneas with a maximum steepness of less than 58 D.
Topography-guided PRK is an adjunct procedure to improve best-corrected acuity by reducing irregular astigmatism by flattening steep areas and steepening flat areas. The best candidates have clear corneas, a minimum corneal thickness of 440 microns, and a difference across the cornea of less than 10 D.
Vision Correction is Amazing. But You Still Need to See Your Eye Doctor
Below is partial copy of our patient brochure that emphasizes the importance of regular followup visits for eye care, especially in those that have undergone refractive surgery. This will be included in the post-op materials provided to all our refractive patients.
The Bochner Eye Institute Named 2021’s ‘Top Choice For Laser Vision Correction in Toronto’
For the past 7 years, the Bochner Eye Institute has been voted the top laser vision correction provider by Top Choice Awards. Selection for this award is based on votes collected from consumers in the GTA. We’re thrilled to be chosen again and appreciate the recognition and support.