Intracorneal ring segments for KC and iatrogenic keratectasia

Abstract

AbstractICRS are polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) implants developed to be inserted in the corneal stroma aiming to remodel the ectatic corneal curvature. In 2000, ICRS have been introduced for the implantation in KC treatment. Since then, several authors have demonstrated the efficacy of this surgical procedure for improving the refractive and topographic results of KC patients. Moreover, the method has been extended to a larger spectrum of corneal ectasia, such as pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD) and iatrogenic ectasia after laser in situ keratomileusis (LASIK). Our aim was to evaluate the functional results, i.e. how uncorrected and corrected distance visual acuity can be improved by implantation of ICRS. Progression of ectasia seems to be retarded. However, consistent follow‐up visits at close intervals are necessary to identify complications at an early stage. The complications after ICRS implantation are rare due to strict patient selection and modern surgical techniques.