Navigated Laser: New 21st Century Technology
Dr. Robin Ross is an ophthalmologist practicing in Scottsdale, AZ. Dr. Ross specializes in eye and vision care. As an ophthalmologist, Dr. Ross can practice medicine as well as surgery. Opthalmologists can perform surgeries because they have their medical degrees along with at least eight years of additional training.... more
Our patients think of "laser" as high tech. There are many different kinds and types of laser.
My first car at age 16 was a very used Volkswagon beetle that I bought secondhand for $1500 before college. I spent the summer sanding rust and using bondo for holes before I paid $99 for a special paint job. It was a stick shift and gas saver, it was a working car. Today, many of my colleagues will buy a used laser like a used car and treat patients with multiple retinal conditions from diabetic retinopathy to retinal tears. They buy a used laser on the used laser market that might have been certified and inspected.
All lasers require calibration and maintenance. Patients may not realize the advances in laser technology and the number of lasers used for "eye treatments." Front of the eye lasers treat glaucoma and second cataracts, and back of the eye lasers treat retinal tears, floaters, and diabetic retinopathy.
A very advanced navigated laser uses computer guided eye tracking. Your retinal vessels are unique to you. This means precision and safety.
Following a photograph at the laser, the surgeon can import other images in an overlay and map the laser trajectory with precision. Something simple like an eye blink prevents the laser from firing. The surgeon can apply "no fly zones" over areas that are critical and need protection, such as the optic nerve and fovea. This alleviates the stress for the patient of looking in the "wrong place" and for the surgeon "of placing a spot in the wrong place".
Once mapping is completed, the laser will track eye movements and precisely place the laser very quickly. This is controlled by the surgeon and aided by computer. The surgeons try to find landmarks in as little time possible. The laser is also a lot more comfortable because of the lower light threshold.
This modern advanced technology is safer, more accurate and has a lower pain rating by patients. It is a public health advancement because patients are more likely to complete treatment. Why don't all surgeons adopt this technology? Cost. The old and the new reimburse the same.
At GRI, we strive to bring state of the art to our patients because excellence with compassion is what we want for our own family. We look at the most vulnerable and ask how we can use technology to maintain eye sight. We pursue excellence and it attracts patients who want compassionate care in a beautiful setting with state of the art equipment as part of their maintenance of eye sight.
