KERATOCONUS TREATMENT
Are you experiencing a deterioration in your vision despite wearing gas permeable contact lenses? Are you having problems wearing your contact lenses for any extended period of time? If so, Intacs corneal implants may be an option for you.
Intacs
Intacs is a FDA approved outpatient procedure for the keratoconic patient who is experiencing intolerance to contact lens wear or is having worsening best-corrected vision despite contact lens wear. Intacs are tiny plastic semi-circular ring segments, which are implanted in the cornea. It is an effective outpatient procedure, which normally takes about 20 minutes to perform. Not only is this procedure much less invasive than a corneal transplantation since no tissue is removed; it is also removable and exchangeable. Having the Intacs procedure does not preclude one from undergoing a corneal transplant in the future if needed. Intacs reshapes the cornea by restoring it to a more natural shape. The goal of the Intacs procedure is to regularize the corneal shape enough so that patients can once again wear contacts or spectacles. This typically translates into improved vision with less distortions, glare, and streaking of lights.
Keratoconus
Keratoconus is an eye disease, which results in a progressive thinning of the cornea. Normal outward pressure within the eye causes the cornea to progressively bulge into a cone-like shape. The change in the cornea's shape can have a dramatic impact on one's vision. As keratoconus progresses, normal everyday activities such as driving and reading can become difficult to perform. In more severe cases, contact lenses or glasses no longer become a satisfactory option for these patients. Although keratoconus rarely results in total blindness, 20% of all patients will become contact lens intolerant. Historically, a corneal transplant has been the only option – until Intacs! Intacs provide a new option to improve both corrected and uncorrected vision, and may defer the need for a corneal transplant.
Not everyone with keratoconus will be a candidate for the Intacs procedure. At the Silicon Valley Eye Physicians, an eye doctor experienced with Intacs can determine if you are a candidate. Dr. Alexander Lee is certified to perform the Intacs procedure, and he frequently evaluates patients in his clinic for this purpose. He can help you to obtain the knowledge you need to make an informed decision about whether Intacs is right for you.
