**3. Platforms available and procedure**

Five FLACS devices are currently available:


The laser programming consists in individual steps: (1) customize the treatment with the graphic user interface, (2) dock with patient interface, (3) image via OCT scan, (4) analyze the image and (5) treat with the femtosecond laser. These functions are clustered on a computer supplied with the femtosecond laser (and the patient bed, depending on the device). The association of the femtosecond laser, the graphic user interface, the docking system, and the OCT scan constitutes the femtolaser platform. Femtolaser platforms are quite similar to each other and are fitted either with an optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging system or a Scheimpflug camera to guide the laser beam to the target. Recording of patient data and customized profiles are made through the touchscreen monitor. Platforms differ in step order, docking interface, lens fragmentation patterns and speed of action (**Table 2**). The environmental needs for the laser system are crucial to provide reproducible procedures. The space in the operative room must be considered as the devices occupies between 2 and 3 m3 (except the LDV Z8, which is a smaller portable device) and must be near to the phacoemulsifier. **Table 3** summarizes these requirements.


**Table 2.** *FLACS platforms available.*

Docking the eye to the system means connecting the eye to the laser. This is done via a patient interface. The patient interface utilizes suction to stabilize the eye and maintain a clear optical pathway for imaging and laser delivery. The goal during suction is to obtain a clear and stable image during the laser treatment while controlling the increased intra ocular pressure and the image quality. Each platform has a specific patient interface, for example, with the Catalys, docking is accomplished with a liquid filled interface which allowed a good cornea visualization during docking. The LenSx uses a curved applanated interface, which can create posterior corneal folds which can interfere with the ability to image and cut tissue effectively. Optimal docking is achieved when there is a symmetric scleral show.
