| Intacs® are clear, thin prescription
inserts placed in the periphery of the cornea (under the surface) by an ophthalmologist
during a brief outpatient procedure. Intacs for the treatment of keratoconus
is an FDA approved procedure.
Dr. Boxer Wachler's technique and large research study were used by the
FDA for their approval. The FDA adopted his procedure guidelines for
the approved surgical technique which is the basis for instructional courses used
to train other surgeons.
How Do Intacs® Work?
Intacs® reshape the curvature of the cornea from
within, enhancing the natural shape of the eye to correct mild nearsightedness.
Because no tissue is removed, natural optics are enhanced and adds
to the structural integrity of the cornea.
A curved glide creates a channel in the periphery of the cornea by gently separating
the tissue layers. The two tiny plastic segments (Intacs®) are
placed in the channel much like placing a pencil in between the pages of a book.
This causes the cornea to flatten which help to achieve more clear vision.
Using the L-U™ ophthalmic tool to measure corneal irregularly, we found
that Intacs improve the irregular corneal shape. This typically translates into
improved vision with less distortions, glare, and streaking of lights.
Intacs® can be exchanged or removed if needed.
Benefits of Intacs® for Keratoconus:
- Outpatient 10-minute procedure
- Improved quality of vision
- Removable, exchangeable
- Less invasive than corneal transplantation
- May delay progression of keratoconus
- Doesn't preclude one from undergoing a corneal transplant in
the future if needed
Potential Risks of Intacs® for Keratoconus:
- Foreign body sensation
- Glare/halos
- Infection
- No improvement
- Sub-optimal vision
Not everyone with keratoconus
will be a candidate for the Intacs® procedure. An eye doctor experienced
with Intacs® can determine if you are a candidate. Dr. Boxer Wachler
frequently evaluates patients in his clinic for this purpose. For his out-of-town
patients, Dr. Boxer Wachler can review chart notes ahead of time to make a preliminary
determination as to whether Intacs® may be beneficial.
Listen to Norris’ experience 3 years after treatment.
Listen to Dr. Howard's story of keratoconus.
Listen to how Intacs® changed
23 year old Travis’ life.
Why choose Dr. Boxer Wachler for your Intacs®?
Listen to Julie’s story about how having Intacs®
performed by a less experienced doctor led her to Dr. Boxer Wachler because the
improperly placed Intacs® worsened
her vision.
Keratoconus is the thinning and bulging of the cornea.
Treatments include Intacs®,
C3-R®, cornea
collagen cross linking, and if keratoconus
progresses to a serious level, cornea transplantation. Dr Brian
Boxer Wachler is a specialist in keratoconus
evaluation and treatment.
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