Aparna Rohara (21) had a myopic correction of cylindrical –5 in both her eyes. The girl was compelled to use contact lenses to see clearly. Whatmore, Rohara was eager to play squash but was afraid that she might damage her lenses. The Roharas met renowned ophthalmologist Dr. Anand Shroff, who after regular counseling solved Aparna’s problems in a matter of minutes by operating her on a wavefront laser.

Shroff operated her in front of media delegates to announce the launch of the world’s most advanced technology for customized laser corrections Wavefront 400 Hz. The live operation was performed at Shroff Eye Hospital in Mumbai. Supermodel Dr. Aditi Gowitrikar graced the event by her presence.

The latest in laser technologies, the machine is equipped with a completely automated control laser. “It provides the patient highest level of safety, accuracy and reliability available in laser technology. The technology has the most sensitive eyetracker which ensures accurate well centered treatments, with absolutely no side effects or possibilities of errors,” informed Shroff. The Wavefront technique maps the cornea of the eye at 168 individual points simultaneously through a unique Abberometer (Wavefront machine). This helps identify the corrections required to compensate for the internal refractive problems of the eye. A small – spot laser beams then treats the cornea to compensate for the error.

Shroff has imported this machine from Germany. There are only 10 other centers in the world that have access to the 400 Hz Wavefront technology. Ironically, the technology is not yet available in the so-called hitech US.

The new technique treats the eye at 400 times per second, with a computer eye tracking mechanism. "The Wavefront 400 stands a head over the older laser versions available in the country. The older versions use antiquated technology like manual eye tracking, low frequency of treatment, large beam width, putting the patient to risk of errors" said Shroff adding that "the older laser are far more slower in treating the eye, leading to an uneven distribution of energy. This leads to problems like night glaring, holes and another disorders."

Rohara was back from the operation desk in 30 minutes. A very contented Rohara, who was very comfortable with the media attention, said later that "the operation was absolutely painfree." Rohara will have to wait for a week for complete restoration of her eyes. However improvement in her eyesight could be experienced within the next 6 hours. "The machine cost 500,000 euros. The charges are very reasonable considering you are getting the best technique available anywhere in the world." Said Shroff.