instrument insider
Buratto LASIK Forceps (Katena Products, Inc.)
Reviewed by Y. Ralph Chu, M.D.

The Buratto forceps are comfortable for right- or left-handed use. IMAGE COURTESY OF: Y. RALPH CHU, M.D.

For the last several years we've used Katena's Buratto forceps to lift and manipulate the flap when we perform LASIK enhancement procedures -- or any other procedure that requires manipulating the flap.

The principle feature that makes the Buratto forceps special is the circular, paddle-shaped tips. The tips allow us to gently manipulate the flap edge; the working surfaces have shallow grooves that provide traction for controlling the flap once it's been lifted. In addition, the gentle curve to the end of the forceps creates a comfortable working angle for right- or left-handed use.

We call the technique we've developed using the Buratto forceps for LASIK enhancement the "one touch technique." It consists of three steps:

• First, we gently use the Buratto forceps to depress the central cornea; this delineates the flap edge.
• Next, we place the tip of the forceps perpendicular to the corneal surface at the edge of the flap and use it to break the adhesion between the LASIK flap and the stromal bed.
• Once the adhesion is broken, we use the forceps to grasp the edge of the flap in a single motion and lift it smoothly. The Buratto forceps, with their "paddle-shaped" tips, act like a miniature third hand. At the same time, the broad surface area of the circular paddles produces less crushing of the corneal tissue.

We've found this technique to be the least invasive, most pain-free and most efficient procedure for enhancements. Also, because it involves minimal manipulation of the flap edge, this technique reduces epithelial ingrowth.

For all of these reasons, the Buratto forceps have become our instrument of choice for LASIK retreatments.

The Buratto LASIK Forceps tips are designed for easy grasping and manipulating of the flap with minimal damage to tissue.

(Note: Dr. Chu has no financial interest in the Buratto forceps or Katena Products.)

Dr. Chu is medical director of Chu Laser Eye Institute in Edina, Minn., and adjunct assistant professor of ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota. He is recognized as a leader in refractive surgery.