This is the first time the federal agency, which typically approves devices or drugs for manufacturers, has granted approval directly to a physician team for a surgical system. The surgical system was developed by cornea specialists George O. Waring III, M.D., R. Doyle Stulting, M.D., Ph.D., and Keith P. Thompson, M.D., who are faculty members of the Emory University School of Medicine Department of Ophthalmology and founders of the Vision Correction Center. A computer-controlled excimer laser gently reshapes the middle layer of the cornea to reduce or eliminate nearsightedness. The surgeon then repositions the flap over the sculpted area to protect it.
Most patients return to normal activities the next day with little or no discomfort.
He served as principal investigator of the clinical research studies conducted to meet the FDA's strict requirements for examining patients following surgery and for analyzing their outcomes. Dr. Thompson, medical director of the Vision Correction Center, had the procedure himself. New generation laser technology will allow surgeons to treat farsightedness in addition to nearsightedness and astigmatism. All Rights Reserved.