Alan Sugar, M.D.
Research Projects

Laser Treatment for Ocular Defects

Lasers have been used for years to treat various ocular disorders; however, the ever-widening applications and continually changing technology have placed some of the treatment effects beyond our understanding. Present scientific evidence is insufficient to fully evaluate the long-term safety and benefits of using lasers in corneal surgeries. Laser treatments such as phototherapeutic keratectomy, photorefractive astigmatic keratectomy, and phototherapeutic ablation require further research in order to perfect the procedures. In addition, long-term follow-up of patients must be carried out to evaluate the effects of the techniques.

Dr. Sugar is currently enrolling patients with hyperopia (farsigntedness) of +1.0 to +4.0 diopters and 0.75 diopters, or less of astigmatism, in a study of conductive keratoplasty. This procedure uses radio frequency current to treat the peripheral cornea and steepen the shape of the center of the cornea.

In collaboration with Dr. Ron Kurtz, Dr. Sugar is conducting laboratory studies of ultrafast lasers in order to refine and improve their clinical uses. These studies are evaluating laser parameters such as wavelength, repetition rate, and very short pulse duration. Short pulses reduce the energy levels, yet deliver extremely high power, thereby almost eliminating damage to surrounding tissues.