Intracorneal Ring Implantation Package

Since in patients with keratoconus the structure of the cornea is not strong enough, they cannot be good candidates for corneal laser refractive surgical procedures such as PRK, femto-LASIK or femto-SMILE. Fortunately, advances in ophthalmology and the evolution in the use of intracorneal ring segments, or INTACS, have provided the opportunity to correct refractive errors in keratoconus patients and improve their vision with or without glasses.

Age Limit for Intracorneal Ring Implantation

You Should be older than 21 years.

Surgical Procedure

The implantation of intracorneal ring segments is an outpatient procedure performed in two steps, using topical anesthetic eye drops. In the first step, using two semicircular dissectors, a radial incision is made in the peripheral cornea, through which two concentric semi-circular tunnels are created in the cornea. Then in the second step, the ring segments with the calculated thickness are implanted in these tunnels. After surgery a bandage contact lens was placed on the cornea. Also postoperative antibiotic and steroid eye drops will be prescribed for one to several weeks.

Post-Operative Care

Your first post-operative visit and periodic eye examinations should be scheduled and performed as directed by your ophthalmologist.
Take your eye drops and other medications on a regular basis.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes on bright days, because in the first few days after surgery your eyes are sensitive to light.
Avoid rubbing or scratching your eyes for at least 4-6 weeks.
Avoid strenuous activities and contact sports such as martial arts, football, volleyball, running, weightlifting, etc. for at least 6 weeks. You are permitted to do light walking or exercises.

Who Are NOT Good Candidates for Intracorneal Ring Implantation

Patients with insulin-dependent diabetes
Patients with connective tissue disorders
People with immunodeficiency diseases
Pregnant or breast-feeding women
Patients with recurrent corneal ulcers or corneal dystrophies
People who are taking Isotretinoin (Roaccutane) "for the treatment of skin rashes", Amiodarone (Cordarone) "for treatment of heart diseases”, or Sumatriptan "for the treatment of migraines"

Who can Undergo an Intracorneal Ring Implantation

People with refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia and/or astigmatism.

Pre-Operative Preparation

Wash your eyelids and eyelashes the night before surgery.
Do not wear makeup 48 hours before surgery.
Wear light and comfortable clothing on the day of surgery.
Do not wear perfume or cologne on the day of surgery.
Do not wear contact lenses 48 hours before surgery. 6. If you feel anxious, take a sedative before surgery.

Surgical Equipment

The surgery is performed with the most advanced equipment in the intraocular operating room of Noor Subspecialty Eye Hospital.

Duration of Your Stay in Iran

1 week

Extra Costs

there is no extra cost.

Further Information

Before undergoing intracorneal ring implantation, consider the following:
- This treatment is recommended for people with mild myopia (patients with a measurement less than
-4.00 diopters of myopia) and/or -1.00 diopters of astigmatism.
- Your eyes must be healthy, with no disease and no compromised vision stemming from injury.
- Your vision must be stable for the year leading up to your surgery.
- Patients with mild to moderate keratoconus, who are intolerant to contact lenses, can be candidates for corneal ring implantation. It should be noted that in these patients, corneal ring implantation only improves vision and does not treat keratoconus.