Cross-Linking and INTACS
Cross-Linking and INTACS – as well as Implantable Contact Lenses – are procedures that AVC can perform for patients with Keratoconus.
Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease in which the normally round cornea begins to thin and bulge into a cone shape. This new cone shape deflects light as it hits the eye, causing distorted vision in one or both eyes. It’s a condition that can run in families and affects around one in 2,000 people. Glasses may be an effective remedy in the early stages of the condition, but AVC’s Cross-Linking halts the progression of Keratoconus by strengthening the cornea. It does not involve surgery but instead uses a UV light system. The ultimate goal is to avoid a corneal transplant, and treatment should only be required once. A safe and simple treatment, Cross-Linking also allows for contact lens wear post-treatment.
INTACS are semi-circular inserts that are implanted into the cornea to reshape the tissue and correct some degrees of refractive error (such as short-sightedness). It’s also a quick and effective treatment for those experiencing mild to moderate Keratoconus, or the disease in its early stages. During the procedure, AVC places micro-thin, clear inserts inside the cornea, which reshapes the cone. The treatment – which is reversible – takes just 30 minutes to complete, and has the added advantage that the INTACS can be removed and exchanged as your needs change.
See below for a step-by-step guide to how AVC uses Cross-Linking in this procedure:
- Anaesthetic drops are used to numb the eye
- The Corneal Epithelium, which covers the front of the cornea, is removed by Ethanol or mechanically
- Yellow riboflavin (Vitamin B12) eye drops are placed on the cornea for 30 minutes – one drop every three minutes
- Corneal thickness is measured and the surgeon checks the eye for penetration of the Riboflavin
- The eye is exposed to UVA light at 370nm (this wavelength of light allows 95% of UV light to be absorbed into the cornea, minimising risk of damage to the lens or retina) for 30 minutes
- Once the treatment is over, patients are provided with a bandage contact lens, which is worn for four days
- Patients are supplied with antibiotic drops to be used for one week
- It is advised that sunglasses should be worn for a few days post-treatment for comfort
Pricing:
Take a look at our Cross-Linking and INTACS prices and payment options.
Contact us:
Want to find out more about Cross-Linking and INTACS? To get in touch, simply use the enquiry form to the right, call our Customer Service Team on 020 7935 7497, or email us at enquiries@advancedvisioncare.co.uk
