Indian American lasik pioneer to be honored with America’s top inventor award
Indian American Rangaswamy Srinivasan, has been nominated by President Barack Obama for the National Medal of Technology and Innovation.
Why this award? Why this laser is unique? About National Medal of Technology and Innovation
Why this award?
Srinivasan, in 1981 made a significant discovery that an ultraviolet excimer laser could be used to etch a living tissue without causing any thermal damage to surrounding areas. He named the phenomenon Ablative Photodecomposition (APD). He collaborated with an ophthalmic surgeon to use a 193nm pulsed laser to reshape the cornea. These excimer lasers led to the development of now famous lasik lasers used in eye and dental surgery.
Why this laser is unique?
The laser produces clean, neat incisions without damaging or burning the untargeted tissues making it safe and efficient to use.
About National Medal of Technology and Innovation
The National Medal of Technology and Innovation was created in 1980 and is administered for the White House by the US Department of Commerce’s Patent and Trademark Office. The award recognizes people who have made lasting contributions to America’s competitiveness and quality of life.
Month: Current Affairs - December, 2012
Category: Science & Technology Current Affairs