Correcting Keratoconus
Improving the quality of sight and enhancing vision in keratoconus
Improving vision in Keratoconus
Improving the vision with keratoconus is now possible. Many methods are now available to enhance the shape of the cornea and vision. Unfortunately, many of these are still unavailable on the NHS. The best method to correct an individual eye will depend upon the severity of the disease, plus individual factors. It is vital to have a comprehensive assessment by somebody offering a full range of treatments. There are many new and exciting treatments. Kieren Darcy is an Internationally renowned specialist in vision correction in Keratoconus.,
Customised laser eye surgery
Keratoconus and corneal ectasias cause the cornea to become irregular, degrading the quality of vision. Laser technological advancements and highly detailed scanning techniques now enable customised surface laser eye surgery to improve the shape of your cornea, improving the quality of vision. These highly specialised treatments aim to repair the shape and initially improve your quality of vision in glasses. This can be performed independently or with corneal collagen cross-linking where required. Following these treatments, other procedures may be possible to reduce dependency on glasses or contact lenses.
Intrastromal rings and CAIRS
Ring segments can be inserted into the cornea to provide additional structural support, improving the shape and vision. These structural segments can be made from biological tissue, more closely matching your cornea (CAIRS – Corneal allogenic intrastromal ring segments) or plastic (Keraring, Intacs). One or two ring segments are customised for each eye to optimise their effect.
These surgeries can be combined with customised laser eye surgery or even other procedures to further improve the quality of vision or even potentially reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Corneal transplant
The number of corneal transplants worldwide performed for corneal ectasias and keratoconus has dramatically reduced since the introduction of collagen crosslinking. However, in advanced cases or the presence of significant scarring, a corneal transplant may be required.
The most common types of transplants performed for ectasias are Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK) and Penetrating Keratoplasty (PK).
