Technology has long driven the laser eye refractive surgery market as innovation and computing power provide the data and precision tools needed to secure better and better outcomes.
In this year’s refractive surgery survey Optician asks the UK’s clinics about the cost and popularity of the various corneal laser procedures available and asks clinics the method by which patients for refractive surgery arrive at their door.
The survey also looks at the choices being made for the implantation of intraocular lenses and the continuing trend towards the use of clear lens extraction (CLE) as the choice for those seeking surgical intervention for the correction of vision.
The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth) states that over 100,000 refractive surgery procedures are undertaken every year, but despite results being generally very good, some concerns regarding inconsistencies with patient information and quality of care were raised by patient and consumer groups. To combat this, RCOphth created the Refractive Surgery Standards Working Group in 2018, which is made up of experienced refractive surgeons and ophthalmologists to develop and produce the Professional Standards for Refractive Surgery. This was aimed at surgeons and other medical professionals and provided guidance on the level of experience and knowledge refractive surgeons should ideally have, the environment for performing surgery safely, good communication and teamwork, continuity of care and maintaining trust.
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