What is Refractive Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (RELACS)?
Millions of Americans suffer from cataracts. More than four million cataract surgeries are performed in the U.S. annually. One in three, mostly seniors, will have cataract surgery in their lifetime. The surgery performed is intended to remove the natural lens in the eye, that has become clouded or milky, over time. To restore focus, a permanent artificial lens replacement is implanted at the time of cataract removal.
Although our eyes share similar anatomy, each and every eye is different, much like a fingerprint. By using the computer controlled LenSx Laser, Dr. Moretsky, Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Stock can obtain special high resolution images of your eyes to identify these differences, thus customizing your cataract surgery experience in ways not attainable with traditional methods. With increased surgeon control, Dr. Moretsky, Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Stock can perform some of the more intricate parts of the surgery with more precision. This results in more predictable outcomes.
Traditional cataract surgery has always involved the use of a surgical blade, used by hand, to create several small incisions in the eye. A bent needle or forceps is used to make an opening in the cataract outer membrane, which is referred to as the capsulotomy. With Refractive Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (RELACS), some of these incisions and the opening in the cataract membrane can now made by a laser. This technology allows Dr. Moretsky, Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Stock to plan and perform various parts of the cataract surgery with laser precision. The laser also softens the central core of the cataract permitting easier removal of the cataract. Ultrasonic energy has traditionally been used to remove the core, but now with laser assisted cataract surgery, the amount of ultrasonic energy necessary can be reduced. This results in less stress to the intraocular structures.
Vision simulation of untreated and RELACS treated astigmatism
Vision without glasses after basic cataract surgery in patient who has astigmatism.
Vision target without glasses after Refractive Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (RELACS) in patient who has astigmatism.
Vision target without glasses after RELACS with premium multifocal or extended depth of focus lens in patient who has astigmatism. Note near and distance.
VERION Image Guided System Laser Cataract Surgery
We are proud to be the first ophthalmology practice in Arizona to perform VERION Image Guided System laser cataract surgery. We can now take laser cataract surgery to a whole new level. This revolutionary advanced technology enables more precise alignment of incisions and placement of toric lenses. It also enables more accurate centering of intraocular lenses, especially multifocals.
By utilizing the most advanced pre-op diagnostic instrument available, the “VERION Reference Unit,” your surgical procedure is mapped and planned.
Next, the digitally obtained data, is introduced via the “VERION Digital Marker” into the LenSx Laser and LuxOR surgical microscope. Finally, the surgical plan is executed by Dr. Moretsky, Dr. Cassidy or Dr. Stock.
We strive to be a cataract surgery “center of excellence” providing the most advance technology available in the hands of vastly experienced surgeons, offering our patients what they deserve – The Best.
Dr. Cassidy and Dr. Stock Performing Laser Assisted Cataract Surger
Dr. Cassidy reviewing scans
