Apparatus and Method for Enhancing Corneal Lenticular Surgery with Laser Refractive Index Changes

Combines SMILE surgery with laser refractive index modification for precise vision correction, reducing aberrations and enhancing outcomes

Institute Reference: 2-17009

Background

Corneal lenticular surgery, such as SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction), is widely used for correcting vision impairments like myopia and astigmatism. However, limitations such as mild decentration and residual aberrations can affect visual outcomes. Additionally, multiple incisions can lead to biomechanical corneal weakening.

Technology Overview

 This invention integrates femtosecond laser-induced refractive index shaping (IRIS) with SMILE surgery. After removing a lenticule to correct general ametropia using SMILE, the refractive index of corneal or ocular tissue is precisely modified with femtosecond laser pulses, allowing for targeted correction of residual errors. IRIS can be used before, during, or after SMILE to further refine vision correction, address higher-order aberrations, and improve visual quality.

Benefits

 The technology offers enhanced vision correction by addressing residual spherical and cylindrical errors that often remain after SMILE surgery. It effectively reduces higher-order aberrations, such as coma and spherical aberration, which are common side effects of standard SMILE procedures. The use of non-destructive laser pulses ensures minimal invasiveness, eliminating the need for additional incisions and thus preserving the natural biomechanics of the cornea. Additionally, the flexibility of the IRIS process allows it to be applied before, during, or after SMILE, enabling a highly customizable approach to vision correction tailored to the individual needs of each patient.

Applications

 The technology is highly applicable in ophthalmic surgery, specifically for patients undergoing refractive procedures who have complex vision issues that cannot be fully corrected by standard lenticular extraction methods. It is also valuable for vision enhancement, serving as an adjunct to SMILE to improve outcomes for patients with demanding visual performance needs.

Opportunity

 The University of Rochester is open to exploring funded research collaborations, licensing agreements, and other partnership opportunities.

URV Reference Number: 2-17009
Patent Information:
For Information, Contact:
Curtis Broadbent
Licensing Manager
University of Rochester
585.273.3250
curtis.broadbent@rochester.edu
Inventors:
Leonard Zheleznyak
Scott Catlin
Keywords: