Hubei's First Next-Generation Robotic Full-Femtosecond Laser Surgery Successfully Performed in a Public Hospital

Background

Myopia remains a significant public health concern in China, with more than 700 million people affected according to reports tied to the introduction of new ophthalmic technologies. This has supported ongoing upgrades in refractive surgery as part of the Healthy China 2030 strategy. In December 2025, Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University held an opening ceremony for next-generation robotic full-femtosecond laser equipment on December 8. The hospital became the first public hospital in Central China to introduce the technology.

What was achieved

On January 26, 2026, the ophthalmology team at Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University performed Hubei's first next-generation robotic full-femtosecond laser surgery in a public hospital. The procedure was carried out by Deputy Chief Physician Liu Yang on a patient who had lived with myopia of over 600 degrees in both eyes for more than 10 years. The patient had traveled from another city after learning about the equipment through online platforms.

The full procedure lasted approximately 8 minutes. The patient's uncorrected visual acuity recovered to 1.0 on the day of surgery. The patient returned to work the next day. Liu Yang noted that the equipment reduces single-eye laser scanning time from 23 seconds to under 10 seconds, decreasing fixation demands and risks from eye micro-movements. The laser produces more uniform spots, creating a smoother corneal lenticule surface that supports better postoperative visual quality, described as providing a 'smoother, more perfect lens.'

How it works

Full-femtosecond laser surgery for myopia correction uses ultra-short pulse laser energy to create a precisely shaped lenticule, a thin piece of corneal tissue, inside the cornea. This lenticule is then removed through a small incision, allowing the cornea to change shape so that light focuses correctly on the retina without the need for glasses or contact lenses. The technique is known for its precision in tissue separation.

The next-generation robotic version incorporates advances in speed and control. Laser scanning per eye is completed in under 10 seconds rather than the previous 23 seconds. This shorter duration reduces the time patients must maintain steady fixation during the procedure, lowering the chance of small involuntary eye movements that could influence accuracy. Reports indicate the system also delivers more uniform laser spots for smoother lenticule surfaces.

Prior to surgery, patients undergo comprehensive evaluation of corneal thickness, morphology, fundus condition, and overall eye health to determine suitability. According to hospital statements, the procedure is performed for myopia ranging from 100 to 1,000 degrees when corneal thickness is adequate and no contraindications such as organic eye disease are present. The ophthalmology department, led by Director Ke Min, has established a team to deliver these treatments.

What it means for international patients

Zhongnan Hospital operates an International Medical Department (also referred to as the Special Needs Medical Care Center) that provides dedicated services for international and high-end patients. This includes specialist appointments, green channels, multidisciplinary consultations when needed, and personalized care in a dedicated ward setting located in Building 4. The department draws on the hospital's full range of clinical resources.

International patients considering refractive procedures such as next-generation full-femtosecond laser surgery at the hospital should contact the International Medical Department directly to confirm current availability, undergo required preoperative screening, and verify personal eligibility. Suitability depends on individual eye measurements, health status, and other factors assessed during consultation. Patients are advised to discuss expected outcomes and any follow-up requirements with the treating physicians.

About the hospital

Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University is a Grade III Class A tertiary public comprehensive teaching hospital located at 169 East Lake Road in Wuchang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, adjacent to East Lake. Founded in 1956, it is affiliated with Wuhan University and integrates clinical care, education, research, and emergency services. The facility has more than 3,300 beds and over 4,200 staff members.

It is recognized for eight national key clinical disciplines including urology, critical care medicine, oncology, general surgery, neurosurgery, orthopedics, gastroenterology, and clinical nursing. The ophthalmology department maintains strengths in glaucoma, cataract, vitreoretinal disease, corneal and ocular surface conditions, and refractive surgery. It conducts approximately 70,000 outpatient visits and 5,000 surgeries annually, supported by advanced diagnostic and surgical equipment. The hospital has an active research program with numerous National Natural Science Foundation of China grants and publications in high-impact journals.