BENGALURU, INDIA — A major retrospective clinical study of 1,500 eyes confirms exciting results. The study validated the rapid visual recovery and superior precision of the latest AI-enabled Small Incision Lenticule Extraction (SMILE) laser platform. Consequently, the technology solidifies its status as a global benchmark in refractive surgery.
Landmark Study Details and Exceptional Accuracy
The large-scale analysis took place at Nethradhama Super Speciality Eye Hospital in Bengaluru. Researchers utilized the advanced ZEISS VisuMax 800 femtosecond laser system. This platform was co-developed by ZEISS and a local ophthalmic leader. That leader is Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, Chairman and Managing Director of Nethradhama.
The study examined data from 770 patients under 45 years old. The outcomes were highly impressive:
- 98% of treated eyes achieved 20/20 vision or better without glasses.
- 99% of eyes were within ±0.50D of the intended correction.
- Furthermore, this remarkable accuracy was reached within just 15 days post-procedure. This demonstrates exceptionally fast and predictable visual recovery.
Enhancing Safety with Next-Gen AI
The VisuMax 800 represents a significant leap forward. Specifically, the system exhibited a major improvement in safety. The rate of suction loss, a key intraoperative risk, occurred in only 0.06% of cases. This is a dramatic reduction compared to earlier laser systems.
The platform integrates advanced artificial intelligence for better results. It incorporates AI-enabled Nomograms with CentraLign for precise centration guidance. In addition, OcuLign provides digital cyclotorsion control, ensuring unmatched accuracy during the procedure.
Speed, Comfort and Global Leadership
Prof. Dr. Sri Ganesh, a vital figure in the platform’s development, commented on the technology’s speed. He stated: “We are proud to position India at the vanguard of global ophthalmic innovation.” The system’s high-speed operation allows surgeons to finish the laser portion in under 10 seconds. “Reducing the laser time significantly enhances patient comfort and streamlines the entire procedure,” he added. Therefore, world-class vision correction is now more reliable and accessible.
Dr. Supriya Samak Sriganesh, Executive Director of Nethradhama, co-authored the paper. She emphasized the research’s importance. “This study provides robust evidence to the global ophthalmology community,” she said.
Patient Experience and Widespread Adoption
The SMILE procedure is painless, using only anesthetic eye drops. The entire treatment for both eyes takes approximately five to six minutes. There is no hospital admission required, and most patients can resume normal daily activities the very next day. Over 13 million procedures have been performed worldwide. Consequently, SMILE is the fastest-growing refractive technique globally. Its widespread adoption is driven by its high safety, comfort, and predictable, long-term efficacy.
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