Keratoconus
What is Keratoconus?
The cornea is essential for clear vision, acting as the eye’s window through which light passes to create images. Normally smooth and round, the cornea helps light travel accurately to the retina. In keratoconus, this smooth surface becomes progressively thinner and bulges into a cone shape. This deformation distorts light and affects vision, leading to issues such as astigmatism and nearsightedness. Keratoconus, most common among teens and young adults, can also cause swelling and scarring, further impairing sight.
Keratoconus Treatment Options
Keratoconus is initially managed with eyeglasses and, as it progresses, with specialized contact lenses. If the condition worsens and contact lenses become intolerable, surgery may be required. Modern treatments include collagen crosslinking, INTAC implants, and advanced corneal transplants, which offer faster recovery than traditional methods.
Collagen Cross-Linking: A Non-Surgical Solution for Keratoconus
Collagen cross-linking is an advanced non-surgical treatment for keratoconus. It uses a combination of UV light and a special vitamin solution to strengthen the cornea by enhancing its structural integrity. This method can significantly halt the progression of keratoconus and, in some cases, even reverse its effects.
How Collagen Cross-Linking Works
The procedure involves applying a vitamin solution to the eye and then exposing it to UV light for about 30 minutes. This process strengthens the cornea and improves its ability to maintain its shape. Developed in Germany, this technique has been shown to effectively slow or stop keratoconus progression, often used alongside other treatments for optimal results.
Intacs: Restoring Corneal Shape
A Solution for Keratoconus Vision Issues
Intacs are a specialized treatment designed to address vision problems caused by keratoconus, a condition where the cornea thins and loses its natural shape. As keratoconus progresses, the cornea becomes irregular, distorting the light entering the eye and affecting vision clarity.
Intacs are small, plastic inserts that are surgically placed between the layers of the cornea. These inserts work by reshaping the cornea to its more natural, rounded form, which can improve how light is focused on the retina and enhance overall vision. This procedure aims to restore clearer vision and reduce the symptoms associated with keratoconus.
If you are experiencing vision issues related to keratoconus, consult with your eye care specialist to discuss how Intacs might help improve your vision and stabilize your corneal structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Intacs?
Intacs are small, plastic inserts surgically placed between the layers of the cornea to reshape it and improve vision clarity for individuals with keratoconus.
How do Intacs help with keratoconus?
Intacs work by flattening and reshaping the cornea to its natural, rounded form, which helps light focus correctly on the retina and enhances overall vision.
Is the Intacs procedure painful?
The procedure is typically done under local anesthesia, so patients usually experience minimal discomfort during the surgery. Some mild discomfort may occur afterward but should subside quickly.
What is the recovery time after receiving Intacs?
Most patients experience a relatively quick recovery, with many returning to normal activities within a few days. However, it’s important to follow your eye care specialist’s post-operative care instructions.
Will Intacs completely restore my vision?
While Intacs can significantly improve vision and reduce symptoms of keratoconus, they may not completely restore vision to 20/20. Results can vary based on the severity of the condition.
Are there any risks or side effects associated with Intacs?
Like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks, including infection, glare, halos, or fluctuating vision. Your eye care specialist will discuss these risks with you before the procedure.
How long do Intacs last?
Intacs are designed to be a long-term solution, but they may need to be adjusted or replaced over time depending on how the cornea changes or responds to the treatment.
Who is a suitable candidate for Intacs?
Intacs are generally recommended for individuals with moderate to advanced keratoconus who have not responded well to other treatments, such as glasses or contact lenses. Your eye care specialist will determine if Intacs are appropriate for your specific condition.
