Improved Safety & Visual Outcomes

QUEBEC, Feb. 6 /CNW/ - New blade-free IntraLase Method(TM) replaces the surgical blade traditionally used to create the corneal flap before each LASIK procedure. This new technology is now available at Clinique Laser Visuel De Québec, Clinique de l'oeil de Montréal, Cliniques Michel Pop and Clinique 100%
Vision.

The LASIK procedure is a highly evolved, safe procedure. However, until the introduction of IntraLase, LASIK was not an all-laser procedure, and the risks associated with the use of a hand-held blade (or mechanical microkeratome) have kept many patients from considering LASIK.

"We now know that the corneal flap plays a significant role in the safety and outcomes of the LASIK procedure," reports Dr. Ghyslain-A. Boudreault, founder and medical director of Clinique Laser Visuel De Québec. He adds, "The IntraLase procedure is a revolutionary advancement in LASIK technology and a major step towards improving my LASIK patients' visual quality."

"Patients have readily adapted to 'blade-free' LASIK, citing fear as their previous deterrent to choosing laser vision correction," says Dr. Sam Fanous, founder and medical director of the Montreal Eye Clinic in Quebec. "LASIK complications associated with the microkeratome are virtually eliminated with the improved safety and precision of the IntraLase laser. As well, the IntraLase procedure helps to improve the visual outcomes of the LASIK procedure."

"IntraLase allows for a complete personalization of the flap, with regards to diameter, thickness and position without having to take the preoperative keratometry into account," says Dr. Michel Pop, founder and medical director of Cliniques Michel Pop.

The IntraLase Method(TM) is a significant advancement in LASIK safety," comments Dr. Guy Doyon, founder and medical director of Clinque 100% Vision. "Futhermore, IntraLase reduces stress and fear, which are commonly observed before and during surgery," he adds. "I am very pleased to offer this advanced technology to Quebec patients."

Evidence from multiple peer-reviewed studies and over 1,000,000 clinical cases show that the IntraLase laser can create a safer flap than the mechanical microkeratome, and can provide more patients with better than 20/20 vision.

How The IntraLase Laser Works

Tiny pulses of laser light pass harmlessly through the outer portion of your cornea and form a uniform layer of microscopic bubbles just beneath the surface of your eye. Just prior to LASIK surgery, the doctor can lift the corneal flap by gently and easily separating the tissue where these bubbles
have formed. The process from start to finish takes approximately 15-25 seconds.

For further information:

Clinique Laser Visuel De Québec, Dr. Ghyslain-A. Boudreault, Tel: (418) 683-7999;
Clinique de l'oeil de Montréal, Dr. Sam Fanous, Tel: (514) 288-0088;
Cliniques Michel Pop, Dr. Michel Pop, Tel: (514) 381-2020;
Clinique 100% Vision, Dr. Guy Doyon, Tel: (819) 346-2727