Hi,

I was treated for a -4.50 diopter prescription almost 6 months ago using the EC-5000. My pupils are about 8mm, and I didn't worry at the time because my doctor said he would be able to "go out to 9mm" on the EC-5000.

I was undercorrected, but more importantly, suffer from large starbursts at night as well as distinct double-images in low to moderate (florescent) lighting.

I'm blaming the machine because I believe the doctor did an excellent job with the surgical procedure. I fear that the ablation area was way too small. Does anyone have insight into the actual capabilities of the EC-5000? I don't see consistent specifications on the web.

Wearing -1.00 glasses helps me see sharp enough during the day and in the office. In the dark, I'm totally dependent on the glasses, and still the other visual artifacts make night driving unpleasant and unsafe.

I've decided I'll need a correction to get past this combination of issues. So I'm looking for a machine that could truly operate wide enough to detect the aberrations and correct for them. I'd very much appreciate any information and recommendations!

Thanks,
Curt

The Nidek EC-5000 for use in the US is FDA approved for a 6.5mm optical zone with a transition zone to 7.5mm. Any other configuration would be considered an "off-label" use of the device.

It is possible (but not probable) that the Nidek used on your eyes was not actually operating within the parameters determined by the FDA to be safe and effective. I suggest you carefully read http://www.usaeyes.org/counterfeit_lasik_lasers.htm

If your surgeon has available other laser platforms, then ask for an evaluation based upon these devices. Otherwise, a second opinion may be appropriate.

Glenn Hagele
http://www.USAEyes.org

I am not a doctor.

Hi Glenn,

Thank you for giving the EC-5000 specifications! I will now inquire of my doctor how he set the machine for "9 mm."

In your opinion, what is the absolute best machine to look for if large pupil size is the primary concern? And is it possible that one doctor might be able to do better than another, given the same machine?

Thanks!
Curt