Keratoconus is a common corneal disease that interferes with direct clear vision. The disease is characterized by a distortion of the shape of the cornea, resulting in a sloping cornea and progressive deterioration of vision. In order to improve vision and stop the progression of the disease, the curved cornea must be flattened. Among the various treatment methods used for this, we can say that CAIRS treatment is one of the most effective ones. So, does the CAIRS technique improve vision? How effective is the treatment?
What is the role of CAIRS in keratoconus treatment?
As we said at the beginning, corneal deformities occur in this disease. Flattening the curved cornea can be shown as the first and most important step of the treatment. This is where the CAIRS method comes into play.
CAIRS surgery uses human corneal tissue whose safety has been tested and approved. Completely natural corneal tissue obtained from the eye bank in the United States is applied to the cornea using a laser procedure.
No tissue is removed from the eye. A corneal allograft intrastromal ring implanted into the cornea with a femtosecond laser strengthens the cornea.
After this treatment, we see an improvement in vision. However, in the second stage, vision may need to be further clarified and vision may need to be improved.
If there is still a need to improve vision, then a second CAIRS procedure may be necessary. Alternatively, if the patient’s eye is suitable, intraocular lenses may be applied to improve vision.
What is the aim of the treatment?
The main and biggest goal of the treatment is to prevent the possibility of corneal transplantation in keratoconus patients. Because corneal transplantation is not an easy process. It is a process with long waiting and preparation periods.
In order to prevent this possibility and to correct vision at an early stage, we can say that CAIRS treatment is an important step.
It is also important to note that early diagnosis is also very important here. Intervening in the eye in the early stages of the disease will be effective in both stopping the progression of the disease and correcting the vision.
Of course, when deciding on this, it is essential to consult a specialist doctor. After detailed eye examinations, information about the condition of the eye and the progression of keratoconus can be obtained.
