Tangential Laser Photorefractive Keratectomy

The long-term objectives of the Tangential Laser Photorefractive Keratectomy project are thedevelopment of ultra-precise instruments and procedures for the correction of refractive errors of theeye. Refractive errors are a major public health issue, affecting the overwhelming majority of theAmerican population in the form of myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism and presbyopia. Previous attemptsto surgically correct these refractive errors have met with modest success. However, limitations inrecision, predictability and long-term stability of the previous procedures have significantly restricted theirpost-operative results. By using high-energy photons in the ultraviolet wavelengths to break chemicalbonds, and the diffraction-limited precision of coherent light sources (lasers) to tangentially ablatecorneal tissue, secularly reflective corneal stromal surfaces have been created. Through the use ofadvanced computer assisted optical design, annular aspheric prismatic optical elements will be fabricatedto create predictable, hemispheric domes of laser irradiation to ablate the cornea down to precise,ultra-smooth, spherical surfaces of pre-determined curvatures. The commercialization of the instrumentsand procedures to be developed is intended to permit the ophthalmic community to achieve clear,prosthesis-free, visual acuity for Americans.