What is Keratoconus: Advanced Techniques and Innovations in Treatment

Dr.Prashaant Chaudhry, 4 mins read

Keratoconus is a condition where the cornea, the clear front part of the eye, becomes thin and bulges into a cone shape. This can cause blurry vision and make everyday activities challenging. Often glasses do not provide a clear vision free from shadowing and distortion. Fortunately, several advanced treatments are available to help manage this condition. In this article, we'll explain these treatments in simple terms and discuss how they can improve vision and quality of life.

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (C3R)
Corneal collagen cross-linking (C3R) is a procedure that strengthens the cornea. During this treatment, vitamin B2 (riboflavin) drops are applied to the eye, and then the eye is exposed to UV light. This process helps the cornea become stronger and stops it from bulging further. C3R is especially helpful for people in the early stages of keratoconus, as it can slow down or even stop the condition from getting worse.

Intracorneal Ring Segments (INTACS)
INTACS are tiny, crescent-shaped plastic rings that are inserted into the cornea to help flatten its shape. This can improve vision by making the cornea more regular and less cone-shaped. INTACS are a good option for people with moderate keratoconus who are not ready for a corneal transplant. The rings can be adjusted or removed if necessary, making this a flexible treatment option. If they do not provide good enough vision, scleral contact lenses can be used in addition to them.

Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) and Scleral Contact Lenses
Rigid Gas Permeable (RGP) contact lenses are semi-soft lenses that sit on the cornea and create a smooth surface for light to enter the eye, improving vision. These are suitable only in the early stages of keratoconus. Scleral lenses are larger and rest on the sclera, the white part of the eye. These lenses are very comfortable and stable, making them a great choice for people with moderate to advanced keratoconus. Immediately on putting on these
lenses, one enjoys distortion-free vision immediately. Both types of lenses help correct the vision but do not alter the progression of the disease for which C3R is necessary.

Athens Protocol: Topography-Guided PRK with C3R
The Athens protocol combines two treatments: topography-guided photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and C3R. PRK uses detailed maps of the cornea to reshape it with a laser, partially correcting vision problems. Immediately after PRK, C3R is performed to strengthen the cornea. This combined approach not only improves vision but also ensures that the cornea remains stable over time. It’s particularly useful for people with significant vision distortion due to keratoconus, allowing them a better quality of vision with glasses and less dependence on contact lenses

Combined INTACS and C3R: A Better Approach
In cases with moderate keratoconus, we have found that combining INTACS with C3R gives better results than doing them one after the other. This combined treatment reshapes the cornea with INTACS and strengthens it with C3R, providing better vision and greater stability. Patients who undergo this combined approach often experience the best outcomes.

Corneal Transplantation: Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK)
In advanced cases of keratoconus where other treatments are not effective, corneal transplantation may be necessary. One of the most preferred techniques is Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK). DALK involves replacing the diseased or thinned outer layers of the cornea while preserving the healthy inner layers. This method reduces the risk of rejection compared to a full-thickness corneal transplant because the patient’s own endothelium (the innermost layer of the cornea) is retained. DALK can significantly improve vision and is a safer option for patients with severe keratoconus, offering a quicker recovery and fewer complications compared to traditional corneal transplantation.

State-of-the-Art Keratoconus Management at Aakash Healthcare
At Aakash Healthcare, we are committed to providing the best care for keratoconus patients. Our advanced facilities and experienced eye specialists offer a range of treatments, including C3R, INTACS, RGP and scleral lenses, the Athens protocol, and DALK. We tailor our approach to each patient's unique needs, ensuring the best possible results and improved quality of life.

For a detailed demonstration of INTACS combined with C3R, watch our informative video.

If you or someone you know is dealing with keratoconus, contact Aakash Healthcare for a consultation. Our experts will help you find the best treatment to manage your condition and improve your vision.