Do Van Bao, 34, from Hung Yen, suffered from severe keratoconus. His left eye was at stage 4, with central corneal scarring that significantly reduced vision and could not be improved by conservative treatments. A corneal transplant became the optimal solution to restore his sight.
Doctor Dinh Thi Hoang Anh, Head of Ophthalmology at Hong Ngoc General Hospital, directly performed the surgery. Having trained for many years in Russia, Germany, and Japan, doctor Hoang Anh holds 10 globally recognized patents for corneal transplant techniques. Based on Bao's complex condition and extensive research into corneal transplant methods, doctor Hoang Anh selected the Femto LDV Z8 system from Sweden for the patient's transplant.
The main challenge in this case was treating late-stage keratoconus, where the eye structure is weakened, deformed, and prone to tearing during manipulation. The Femto LDV Z8 system uses a laser to automatically separate corneal layers based on parameters pre-planned by the surgeon. "This makes surgery safer and easier compared to traditional manual methods, optimizing visual recovery for patients," doctor Hoang Anh stated.
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The first corneal transplant using Femto LDV Z8 in Vietnam. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
Initial results show the graft is stable and compatible with the recipient's cornea. The patient's eye responded well post-surgery and will continue to be monitored to assess vision improvement in subsequent stages.
Previously, corneal transplant surgery relied heavily on a microsurgical knife and the surgeon's tactile feel for layer separation and graft preparation. According to doctor Hoang Anh, the cornea is thin and sensitive; a deviation of a few micrometers can lead to a cut that is too deep, damaging endothelial cells and requiring the entire donated cornea to be discarded. This represents a significant loss, especially given the scarcity of cornea supply.
The Femto LDV Z8 addresses the limitations of manual techniques. Developed by the Ziemer Group, a Swiss ophthalmic equipment manufacturer, this multi-tasking laser system is widely used in corneal, refractive, and cataract surgery.
When applied to corneal transplants, the system offers many advantages. With low laser energy, a high pulse frequency, and ultra-precise scanning technology, it allows surgeons to perform layer separation with micrometer accuracy. "This improves graft quality while shortening recovery time and reducing complication risks for patients," doctor Hoang Anh said.
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The machine features flexible articulation, convenient for both surgeons and patients. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
Additionally, with its new software generation, the Femto LDV Z8 features upgraded high-resolution 3D optical coherence tomography (OCT 3D) during surgery. This enables surgeons to observe detailed corneal structures at various depths, precisely assess tissue thickness, curvature, and surface, and create an optimal surgical plan. Consequently, the graft is shaped with precision, achieving an almost perfect match with the recipient's cornea. "This is a key factor determining the success of the transplant," doctor Hoang Anh emphasized.
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The Femto LDV Z8 system used at Hong Ngoc General Hospital. Photo: Hong Ngoc General Hospital |
According to doctor Hoang Anh, the system introduces a new approach to corneal layer separation. This technology provides stability, significantly reducing the risks associated with manual manipulation. It marks an important advancement in corneal surgery in Vietnam, enabling surgeons to treat patients more effectively, especially those with complex conditions like late-stage keratoconus.
The Dan
As part of Hong Ngoc General Hospital with years of experience, and a comprehensive partner in Vietnam with the Japanese ophthalmology group Hoeikai, Hong Ngoc Eye Center meets patients' needs for specialized eye care:- Hotline: 0919 489 258 - 0916 987 366- Address: Zone C, 11th floor, Hong Ngoc Phuc Truong Minh General Hospital, 8 Chau Van Liem, Tu Liem, Hanoi
