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.

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.