초록 ▼

A method for corneal laser surgery includes directing the focal point of a focused laser beam at a start point in the stroma. The focal point is thenmoved along a predetermined path in the cornea to photodisrupt tissue and to create a flap or a plug of corneal tissue. Specifically, the flap or plug

A method for corneal laser surgery includes directing the focal point of a focused laser beam at a start point in the stroma. The focal point is thenmoved along a predetermined path in the cornea to photodisrupt tissue and to create a flap or a plug of corneal tissue. Specifically, the flap or plug is crated with an undercut region that interlocks with an overlap region to restrain movement of the flap or plug in an anterior direction. Stromal tissue under the flap or plug can then be removed when the plug or flap is forceably lifted from the cornea. The flap or plug is subsequently replaced in its interlocking relationship with the remainder of the corneal tissue. The diminished stromal tissue reshapes the cornea in a manner which improves the vision of the patient.

대표청구항 ▼

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for creating a replaceable layer of living corneal tissue in a cornea having an anterior surface and a posterior surface which comprises the steps of:identifying a first surface area having a first periphery on the anterior surface of the cornea;identifying a sec

[ What is claimed is:] [1.] A method for creating a replaceable layer of living corneal tissue in a cornea having an anterior surface and a posterior surface which comprises the steps of:identifying a first surface area having a first periphery on the anterior surface of the cornea;identifying a second surface area having a second periphery, said second surface area being larger than said first surface area and being substantially parallel thereto; andcutting along a substantially straight line between said first periphery and said second periphery; andback cutting on said second surface to create an undercut region for said layer with a hinge between said layer and said cornea, said undercut region restraining movement of said layer in a direction toward the anterior surface of the cornea during subsequent healing between said layer and the cornea.