Excimer Laser in Situ Keratomileusis

Excimer laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) is the most recent evolution of the family of lamellar refractive surgery, which includes keratophakia, freeze myopic keratomileusis, epikeratoplasty, keratomileusis in situ, and Buratto-style excimer laser keratomileusis. LASIK is the marriage of the microkeratome, with its ability to resect a piano lamellar disc of corneal tissue, and the precision of the argon-fluoride excimer laser, operating at 193 nm to remove submicron layers of corneal stroma to achieve a highly predictable refractive result. Myopia, astigmatism, hyperopia, presbyopia, and complex ablations for abnormal topography have been attempted. Although LASIK as a technique is relatively young, the early results are very encouraging. Investigators worldwide are vigorously investigating its efficacy, predictability, stability, and safety.