Keratoconus is a progressive eye disorder where the cornea, which is normally round, thins and begins to bulge into a cone-like shape. This distortion of the cornea leads to blurred vision, increased sensitivity to light, and other visual disturbances. Managing keratoconus effectively is crucial for maintaining quality of life, and one innovative treatment option that has shown promise is Intacs corneal implants. This article explores how Intacs can improve vision for keratoconus patients, detailing the benefits, procedure, risks, and what patients can expect.
Understanding Keratoconus
Keratoconus affects the structural integrity of the cornea, causing it to thin and protrude outward. This irregular shape prevents light entering the eye from being focused correctly on the retina, resulting in distorted vision. The exact cause of keratoconus is unknown, but it is believed to involve genetic and environmental factors. The condition typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood and can progress over time.
What Are Intacs?
Intacs are micro-thin, semi-circular rings made of a biocompatible material called polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA). These implants are inserted into the cornea to flatten it, correct its shape, and improve vision. Initially developed to correct mild myopia, Intacs have been approved by the FDA for treating keratoconus, especially in patients who no longer achieve adequate vision with contact lenses or glasses and are not yet candidates for corneal transplants.
How Intacs Work
Intacs work by reshaping the cornea from within. The implants are placed in the peripheral corneal tissue, creating an arc that helps flatten the central cornea. This change in shape reduces the irregular astigmatism caused by keratoconus and improves the cornea’s ability to focus light properly on the retina. The procedure is minimally invasive, and the implants can be removed or replaced if necessary.
The Intacs Procedure
The Intacs procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and involves the following steps:
Preoperative Assessment: A comprehensive eye examination is conducted to measure the cornea’s thickness, curvature, and overall health. This helps in planning the placement of the Intacs.
Anesthesia: Local Anesthesia in the form of eye drops is administered to numb the eye.
Creating the Channels: Using a femtosecond laser or a mechanical device, the surgeon creates small channels in the corneal stroma where the Intacs will be placed.
Inserting the Intacs: The Intacs segments are gently inserted into the channels. The exact positioning is crucial for optimal correction of the corneal shape.
Postoperative Care: After the procedure, the patient is given antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. A protective shield may be worn to prevent accidental rubbing of the eyes.
Benefits of Intacs for Keratoconus Patients
Improved Vision
One of the primary benefits of Intacs is the significant improvement in vision. By flattening the cornea, Intacs reduces the irregular astigmatism associated with keratoconus, leading to clearer and more stable vision. Many patients experience a reduction in their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Minimally Invasive
The Intacs procedure is minimally invasive, involving small incisions and a relatively quick recovery period. Unlike corneal transplants, which require extensive surgery and longer healing times, Intacs offers a less invasive alternative with fewer risks.
Adjustable and Reversible
Intacs can be adjusted or removed if necessary, providing flexibility in treatment. If the patient’s vision changes over time or if the implants cause any issues, they can be easily modified or taken out without significant complications.
Delay or Prevent the Need for Corneal Transplant
For many patients with keratoconus, Intacs can delay or even prevent the need for a corneal transplant. By stabilizing the corneal shape and improving vision, Intacs can prolong the period before more invasive procedures are considered.
Risks and Considerations
While Intacs offers numerous benefits, it is important to be aware of potential risks and considerations:
Infection and Inflammation
As with any surgical procedure, there is a risk of infection and inflammation. Proper postoperative care and adherence to the surgeon’s instructions are essential to minimize these risks.
Discomfort and Vision Fluctuations
Some patients may experience discomfort, glare, or halos around lights, particularly during the initial healing period. These symptoms usually subside over time but can persist in some cases.
Dislocation or Extrusion
Although rare, there is a possibility of the Intacs segments dislocating or extruding from the cornea. Regular follow-up appointments are necessary to monitor the implants and ensure they remain in the correct position.
Conclusion
Intacs corneal implants offer a promising solution for patients with keratoconus, providing improved vision, a minimally invasive treatment option, and the potential to delay or prevent the need for corneal transplants. By reshaping the cornea and correcting its irregular curvature, Intacs helps patients achieve clearer, more stable vision and enhance their overall quality of life.
For those considering Intacs for keratoconus, ClearView Eye and Laser Medical Center in San Diego is a premier choice. Renowned for its commitment to patient care and use of cutting-edge technology, ClearViewEyes offers personalized treatment plans tailored to each patient’s unique needs. Their team of experienced ophthalmologists is dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, ensuring optimal outcomes for those undergoing Intacs and other vision correction procedures. If you are exploring treatment options for keratoconus, ClearViewEyes can provide the expertise and support you need to make an informed decision about your smile eye surgery San Diego.
