Advantages of femtosecond laser in various corneal transplantation procedures: A narrative literature review

Taiwan J Ophthalmol. 2023 Aug 4;13(3):265-273. doi: 10.4103/tjo.TJO-D-23-00067. eCollection 2023 Jul-Sep.

Abstract

The ability of the femtosecond laser (FSL) to create tissue incisions at desired depth and location with minimal collateral damage to surrounding tissue may offer potential advantages for corneal transplantation surgery. FSL may enable the precise and accurate preparation of both donor and recipient tissue, which can potentially result in enhanced wound integrity, facilitation of wound healing, and improved visual outcomes. Many studies have suggested that FSL may be a viable option in various corneal transplantation procedures, such as, penetrating keratoplasty, anterior lamellar keratoplasty, endothelial keratoplasty, and novel techniques, including Bowman layer transplantation and stromal lenticule addition keratoplasty. In this review, the author presents a brief overview on the application of FSL in various corneal transplantation procedures and discusses the results of studies regarding the safety and efficacy of FSL-assisted corneal transplantation procedures.

Keywords: Corneal transplantation; femtosecond laser; keratoplasty; lamellar keratoplasty; penetrating keratoplasty.

Publication types

  • Review