ABSTRACT
A. INTRODUCTION Advances in microkeratome design and laser technology have propelled LASIK to the forefront of refractive surgery. The newest generation of microkeratomes has reduced the risk and increased the accuracy of creating the lamellar flap-the step that historically has been the most challenging. Laser technology has produced improved treatment accuracy and predictability, and software updates allow the avoidance of certain pitfalls such as central islands and the treatment of refractive errors that were previously untreatable. The two most important instruments in LASIK are the microkeratome and the laser, and as such careful attention must be given to their calibration and settings. This chapter has been written to provide general guidelines for the use of these two instruments. The analysis of features and specifications of instruments made by individual manufacturers changes continuously and is beyond the scope of this chapter. In addition to the recommendations presented here, the surgeon is urged to become familiar with the nuances and eccentricities of the particular unit used.
