VISX CustomVue Laser Vision Procedure

Q: What is VISX CustomVue (individualized laser vision correction)?

A: VISX CustomVue individualized laser vision correction is a WaveScan driven LASIK procedure which enables physicians to measure and correct the unique optical imperfections in the eye of each individual. Many optical imperfections could never be measured prior to wavefront measuring devices being developed for human optics.

Q: What is a WaveScan?

A: A Wavescan is digital technology which identifies and measures optical imperfections in an individual's eye more precisely than standard methods for measuring glasses and contact lenses. Wavescan technology was originally approved for use in high-powered telescopes to reduce distortions when viewing distant objects in space. This technology is now applied to laser vision correction, measuring imperfections in the eye which could never be measured before.

Q: Why is WaveScan technology so important to the CustomVue procedure?

A: Until now, physicians were forced to treat individuals with one-size fits all technology. Off-the-shelf lenses can correct an individual's vision well but not as precisely because it is not uniquely tailored to each individual's "optical fingerprint". With WaveScan technology, surgeons can custom tailor vision correction for the unique characteristics of each individual's eye.

Q: How is the information transferred from the WaveScan to the laser?

A: The WaveScan device provides a direct digital link to the laser, providing a new level of precision and accuracy minimizing manual and transcription errors, which could occur with conventional laser treatments.

Q: How could the CustomVue procedure affect my night vision?

A: Because CustomVue corrects the unique imperfections in the optics of each individual's eye; it is likely that night vision will be improved. In fact, the FDA clinical study demonstrated that four times as many participants were satisfied with their night vision after CustomVue LASIK as compared to their night vision prior to LASIK with glasses or contact lenses.

Q: Who is a candidate for VISX CustomVue procedure?

A: Anyone 20 years of age or older who wears glasses or contact lenses to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism may benefit from CustomVue, if their Wavescan meets certain criteria. Individuals should consult with their surgeon for more detailed information.

Q: What does better then 20/20 mean?

A: 20/20 is the current standard for excellence in vision. But with the CustomVue procedure, individuals have the potential to see even better than 20/20. In fact, one year after the CustomVue procedure more than 70% of clinical study participants saw 20/16 or better.

Q: Can you briefly explain what a patient will experience during the course of this procedure?

A: Individuals will initially meet with Dr. Benedetto for an evaluation to determine if he or she is a good candidate for the CustomVue procedure. A WaveScan measurement will be taken to map the unique characteristics of each individual's optics. Dr. Benedetto will assess several criteria including level of correction and overall eye health. Once it is confirmed that the individual is a good candidate, he or she can be scheduled for the CustomVue procedure. Dr. Benedetto's laser coordinator will provide further details on how to prepare for the day of the procedure.

On the day of the procedure, the individual will be seated in a reclining position beneath the laser. Anesthetic drops will be placed in each eye and a flap will be created in the cornea with the Intralase laser. The individual's treatment information will be transferred from the WaveScan device to the VISX Star S4 refractive laser in order to drive the CustomVue procedure. The actual laser procedure utilizing the VISX Star S4 typically takes ten to forty seconds. Other than minor pressure, most individuals feel little or nothing during the procedure.

After CustomVue, individuals will notice results immediately, and vision will continue to improve over the next few days. Follow-up visits are scheduled for the day after surgery, several weeks after the initial procedure and several months later.

Q: Is vision after the VISX CustomVue procedure better than vision with glasses and contacts?

A: As shown in the FDA clinical study, VISX CustomVue can produce better vision than is possible with glasses and contact lenses. Glasses and contacts are limited in their ability to correct the unique optical imperfections in each eye. In fact, thousands of individuals may have the same prescription but with the CustomVue procedure, no two optical corrections are identical.

Q: Will I need glasses or contacts after the CustomVue procedure?

A: Probably not. One year after the clinical study, all participants saw well enough to drive a car without glasses or contacts. Ninety-eight percent had 20/20 vision. However, individual results may vary.

Q: What were the visual acuity results of the FDA clinical study?

A: The significant results were that one year after the VISX CustomVue procedure:

100% of participants could pass a driving test without glasses or contacts
98% of participants could see 20/20 or better without glasses or contacts
70% of participants could see better than 20/15 without glasses or contacts