Size of Optical zone for nearsightedness

6.5 mm

5.5 mm

Larger optical zones (VISX is 40% larger) improve quality of night vision.

Side Effects - Postoperative incidence

FDA regulations prohibit comparison

Visual Fluctuation: 48%
Glare: 34%
Night driving difficulty: 48%

Side effects are undesirable

Smoothness of cornea after treatment

Smoothest Available

Rough and ridge-like appearance

Smoother corneal surface gives more rapid recovery and better visual activity

FDA approvals and indications

All 3 refractive errors and LASIK approval for myopia and astigmatism

Only 2 refractive errors. No farsightedness, no LASIK approval

Broader approval and validation by regulatory body.

Amount of tissue removed - astigmatism treated with nearsightedness

Combines treatments to minimize depth of tissue removed & treatment time

Two separate treatments required: removes more tissue, takes longer

Less tissue removal is always preferred, especially in LASIK

Ability to treat low refractive errors

Can handle any treatment, including ¼ diopeter or less

Cannot perform small myopic treatments below ¾ diopeter

Increases patient satisfaction through more precision; ability to "fine tune" results.

Re-treatment capability for possible overcorrection

Fully capable

Not Capable

Laser must be able to correct farsightedness for the small % of patients who may get overcorrection

Current laser platform and technology

STAR S4 introduced in 1998

EC-5000 introduced in 1992

VISX uses the latest advancements available

Expertise of the laser manufacturer

US based company dedicated to LVC, invented the technology

Low-end importer of medical equipment with numerous product lines to support

VISX commitment to providing the most advanced technology to doctors.

Clinical Expertise

#1 choice of US doctors, over 1 million US eyes treated, including over 8,000 eyecare professionals

Limited US experience on patients, used by very few doctors in US

Much greater clinical expertise and track record in the United States.