Intacs corneal implants are a minimally invasive surgical procedure that places a pair of tiny, crescent-shaped pieces of a plastic polymer into the cornea to restore its natural shape. Although originally used to treat myopia, because of Intacs’ safety record and lack of other treatment options, Intacs was approved by the FDA in 2004 to treat keratoconus, a disease of the eye. This means that keratoconus patients now have a treatment option that gives those who suffer from the disease normal vision, something not always obtained with contact lenses or eyeglasses.
Intacs corneal inserts have the added benefit of being replaceable over time. Because Intacs are an additive technology, they can be surgically removed or replaced at a later date. This can be done either to reflect changes in the shape of the cornea, to update a prescription by replacing the rings with new ones that are needed to correct aging or other conditions, or even to be entirely removed so the eye can return its natural shape.
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The creation & placement of the intacs
ring using the prolate system |
Intacs corneal inserts are made of the same biocompatible material that is used to produce intraocular lenses or cataract lens implants, so any adverse reaction would be very rare. The process of inserting the Intacs normally takes about fifteen minutes, and following the procedure, the patient normally returns home after a brief period of rest.
Most patients begin experiencing better vision during the few days following the procedure, but a brief period of adjustment may be needed. The Intacs inserts will be as virtually invisible and cannot be felt by the wearer because of their location beneath the cornea's nerve endings.
If you are interested in this flexible solution as a replacement to laser surgery, please call the Easton Eye Consultants at (508) 238-2388 to arrange an appointment where your questions can be answered.
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