Eye Implants to Correct Vision
Introduction
Intrasomal corneal ring segments or Intacs are an
FDA-approved non-laser surgery procedure to help correct
nearsightedness.
Intacs are tiny, clear prescription eye inserts. They are
flexible, crescent-shaped rings that are placed in the periphery
of the cornea by an ophthalmologist during a simple outpatient
procedure. Intacs inserts help flatten the front of the eye,
helping to decrease mild nearsightedness in patients.
The Intacs procedure is typically suggested for those
patients suffering from minor nearsightedness. The treatment
cannot be used to help farsightedness, severe nearsightedness,
or astigmatism.
How Are Intacs Placed?
Intacs are placed in a short procedure performed in your
ophthalmologist's office.
First, the ophthalmologist numbs your eyes using specially
medicated eye drops. Then, the doctor makes a small incision at
the top of your eye.
Through this incision, the two crescent-shaped segments of
the ring are placed in the left and right side of your inner
cornea.
The placement of the rings takes about 15-20 minutes;
however, the entire procedure takes about an hour when time for
preparation is included.
How Do Intacs Correct Nearsightedness?
Intacs work by reshaping the curve of the cornea, which is
elongated in people with nearsightedness.
Once the Intacs are implanted into the eye, there is no
maintenance required and patients cannot feel the implants. The
implants are similar to contact lenses and can be modified if
your vision worsens. Most patients are able to obtain 20/20
vision after receiving the procedure.
Because no corneal tissue is removed when receiving Intacs
(unlike with laser eye surgery), patients may undergo further
vision correction treatments if necessary.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Intacs?
The best candidates for Intacs are people with mild
nearsightedness who have had stable vision for at least a year,
are at least 21 years of age, and who have disease and
injury-free eyes.
Are There Risks With Having Intacs Implanted?
Like any procedure, there are risks that a problem may arise
following treatment. Intacs may cause inflammation of the eye,
trouble seeing at night, a decreased ability to see clearly, and
difficulty in gauging distance.
The doctor performing your surgery will discuss possible
complications with you before treatment. Unlike many other
surgical procedures, if the patient is not happy with their
results, the corneal rings can be taken out and corrected or
replaced to produce the desired eyesight results.
How Successful are Intacs?
Research shows that about 74% of U.S. patients receiving
Intacs were able to see 20/20 or better within a year and 97% or
more saw 20/40 after the one-year period. These results may vary
for individuals.
How Long Does It Take to Recover From the Procedure?
Patients receiving Intacs can usually return to their normal
activities within a day or two. The eyes tend to heal and
eyesight stabilizes in about a month or so. You can drive a car,
read, and work during this healing process.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Cole Eye Institute.
Edited by
Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, WebMD, October 2004.
Portions of this page ©
The Cleveland Clinic 2000-2005
Last Editorial Review: 6/30/2005
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