Laser vs. Blade Microkeratomes

The micro-keratome is a device used to make a flap in he cornea. Over the past few years, a laser micro-keratome, the Intralase, has been introduced and heavily marketed as “All Laser LASIK.” The Intralase still makes a flap, usually has longer healing times (as much as 24 hours of discomfort vs. 3-6 hours), and longer visual rehabilitation (as much as 48 hours instead of overnight), and is also more expensive. Furthermore, the Intralase does not make a smooth cut, but actually makes multiple perforations in the flap, and the flap has to be raised forcefully with a forceps.

For the past several years Dr. Motwani has been using what he considers the most advanced blade micro-keratome, the Moria M2. This device makes very smooth, quick, reliable, corneal flaps with a flap complication rate of 1-2 flaps per year. Because of the extreme reliability of this device, the extremely smooth flap beds, and the faster rehabilitation times, Dr. Motwani continues to recommend blade over laser micro-keratomes until such day as the discomfort and rehabilition times can be brought on par with the Moria M2.

Source: San Diego's Alpha Laser Center.