Which is safer, semi-femtosecond or full-femtosecond laser surgery?

Original author: Dr. Yu Li

In ophthalmic surgery, both semi-femtosecond and full-femtosecond laser surgeries are commonly used methods for myopia correction. For many people, which surgery to choose may be a confusing question. In the popular science scenario, we will analyze the characteristics of these two surgeries in detail to help you make a more informed decision.

First, let's understand the basic principles of these two surgeries. Semi-femtosecond surgery, also known as femtosecond laser-assisted excimer in situ keratomileusis, combines the two technologies of femtosecond laser and excimer laser. First, the femtosecond laser is used to create a corneal flap, and then the excimer laser is used to cut the corneal tissue to correct vision. The full femtosecond surgery, also known as the full femtosecond micro-incision lenticule removal, only requires the femtosecond laser throughout the process, without the need to create a corneal flap, and the cut corneal tissue is removed through a tiny incision.

Next, let's compare the advantages and disadvantages of these two surgeries. The advantage of semi-femtosecond surgery is that it has a wide range of applications and can correct higher myopia and astigmatism. In addition, since instruments such as corneal topography and wavefront aberration can be carried out during the operation, personalized surgical design can be achieved. However, the disadvantage of semi-femtosecond surgery is that a corneal flap needs to be made during the operation, which may increase surgical risks, such as flap displacement and flap wrinkles. The advantage of all-femtosecond surgery is that no corneal flap needs to be made, so the surgical risk is relatively low. In addition, all-femtosecond surgery is minimally invasive, has fast recovery, and is more comfortable after surgery. However, all-femtosecond surgery has high requirements for corneal conditions and a relatively narrow range of applications.

When choosing surgery, you should make a decision based on your individual situation and the doctor's advice. For patients with better corneal conditions and lower myopia, full femtosecond surgery may be a better choice. For patients with poorer corneal conditions and higher myopia, half femtosecond surgery may be more suitable. No matter which surgery you choose, you should make sure it is performed in a regular hospital and do relevant preoperative examinations and postoperative care to reduce the risk of complications.

In short, semi-femtosecond and full-femtosecond laser surgeries each have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of which surgery should be based on personal circumstances and doctor's advice. Before making a decision, please fully understand the principles of surgery, scope of application, risks, and postoperative care in order to make a wise choice.