Restoring quality of life through better vision...
 Intacs corneal implants is an FDA approved option for the keratoconus patient that is in-between contact lenses and a corneal transplant!
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. Historically, a corneal transplant has been the only option – until Intacs!
Intacs corneal implants are an exciting option for individuals experiencing an intolerance to contact lens and are facing a corneal transplant. Intacs corneal implants may be the best possible option to stabilize the cornea, improve vision and potentially defer the need for a corneal transplant.
Intacs corneal implants are indicated for use in the correction of nearsightedness and astigmatism associated with keratoconus where contact lenses and glasses are no longer suitable.
Intacs corneal implants are approved by the FDA for keratoconus under a Humanitarian Device
The Intacs Corneal Implant Procedure
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 a corneal transplant or many other surgical procedures of the eye and the Intacs success rate is high. The surgeons performing the procedure are typically corneal surgeons, having expertise with keratoconus. Each surgeon has also undergone a rigorous training program specific to Intacs for treating patients with keratoconus.
Before the Procedure
Typically, your ophthalmologist, possibly working in tandem with an optometrist will have you undergo a thorough eye examination.
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.
Anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, which is held open throughout the procedure to prevent blinking.
- Step 1: Using the latest technology (Femto Second Laser) Dr. Raju makes a small painlessly opening and separation of the inner layer of the cornea. (it takes 10 seconds)
- Step 2: The Intacs are inserted in the grooves.
- Step 3: One suture is placed.
- Step 4: The procedure is completed.
The placement of Intacs inserts remodel and reinforce your cornea, eliminating some or all of the irregularities caused by keratoconus in order to provide you with improved vision.
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.
Corneal Transplant
In the U.S., corneal tissue is readily available for transplant surgery (unlike outside the U.S.). The procedure requires the removal of your corneal tissue, where the disease is most prevalent, and is surgically replaced with donor corneal tissue which is then sutured into place.
The procedure takes between one to two hours and will require multiple follow-up visits to assess the healing process to apply anti-rejection medications, complete the removal of the sutures and to perform a refractive examination and fitting for glasses or contact lenses. The overall recovery time differs by individual; however, the medical community indicates the recovery time can take more than a year.
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