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Refractive
General
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Keratoconus & IntacsRestoring quality of life through better vision... Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease, which causes a thinning of the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). As keratoconus progresses, the quality of one's vision deteriorates and contact lenses or glasses no longer become a satisfactory solution for most people. For many, an invasive corneal transplant was the only option – until now! Intacs prescription inserts are an exciting new option between contacts and a corneal transplant that may be the best possible option to stabilize the cornea and improve vision. Researchers estimate that keratoconus affects 1 in 2000 people. The disease affects men and women alike and there are no known differences between races. The onset of keratoconus can occur anywhere between the ages of 8 to 45. In the majority of the cases, it becomes apparent during the teen years and slowly worsens before stabilizing somewhat in the 30's or 40's. Intacs prescription inserts are indicated for use for patients with Keratoconus, where contact lenses and glasses are no longer suitable. Intacs prescription inserts are approved by the FDA for keratoconus under a Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE). FAQ -Keratoconus & Intacs What are the symptoms? Initially, a person with early stage keratoconus will notice a subtle change in their vision. As the disease progresses, vision will fluctuate and frequent changes to one's glasses or contact lenses often occur. This happens as a result of a thinning taking place within the cornea and bulging caused by one's normal eye pressure pushing on the weakened front surface of the eye. As the disease continues to advance, the light rays entering the eye become significantly distorted, called irregular astigmatism. The outer portion of the eye begins to bulge, creating what often looks like a cone shape. Does keratoconus affect both eyes? Yes, in approximately 90% of keratoconus cases the disease will manifest itself in both eyes. The rate of progression and the timing of the onset of the disease is typically different for each eye. How can it be treated? Typically, an eyecare professional will treat early stage keratoconus with contact lenses or glasses addressing the early vision correction needs of the patient. In later stages, rigid gas permeable contact lenses are often recommended. These lenses are used to improve one's vision and to brace the bulge in the cornea. In advanced cases, where the patient can no longer achieve adequate functional vision with contact lenses, corneal transplant surgery may be necessary. Will I go completely blind? No, historically very few if any persons suffer from total blindness from keratoconus alone. But in severe cases, one's vision can be significantly impaired and normal everyday activities may be difficult. How do Intacs work? How might they help me?
Tell me more about corneal transplant surgery.
What are advantages of the Intacs procedure vs. corneal transplant? A corneal transplant is an invasive surgical procedure, requiring the removal of a section of your cornea and having it replaced with donor tissue. Although successful, it is a delicate procedure with typically a long recovery period. The Intacs procedure does not require removal of corneal tissue, but rather works on the principle of reshaping your own cornea from within utilizing special designed corneal inserts that provide structure to a weakened cornea. The recovery period is typically short, with visual improvement noticed almost immediately. (In the few cases in which a corneal transplant was performed after an Intacs procedure, there were no complications reported.) Where can I get more information? Your eye doctor is the best resource for any specific questions you may have regarding this condition. You may also visit Addition Technology’s website: www.intacsforkeratoconus.com The Procedure - Keratoconus & Intacs Before the procedure, you will undergo a thorough eye examination by The Eye Center surgeons. Your examination will include a variety of standard ophthalmic tests for this type of procedure, as well as general medical tests and a review of your specific medical history. Prior to any surgical procedure it is common to experience a degree of anticipation and anxiety. It may be comforting to know that the Intacs procedure is far less invasive than other eye surgeries and the Intacs success rate is high. Surgeons performing the procedure are typically corneal specialists, having expertise with keratoconus. Each surgeon has also undergone a rigorous training program specific to Intacs for treating patients with keratoconus.
Follow-up visits will be required to monitor the healing process and evaluate the visual benefits of the procedure. Even after a successful procedure, glasses or contacts still may be required to provide you with good vision. As with any surgical procedure, there are some risks, including infection. Some patients experience visual symptoms including difficulty with night vision, glare, halos, blurry and fluctuating vision.
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