Bogotá Laser > Visual defects > Keratoconus surgery

Keratoconus surgery

Cirugía de queratocono
Keratoconus is an uncommon condition in which the cornea (the transparent front part of the eye) becomes abnormally thin and protrudes forward. It means a cornea shaped like a cone.

This abnormal shape is classified based on its severity as mild, moderate, and severe. The following procedures can be performed to correct this condition: severe keratoconus is treated with corneal transplantation, mild keratoconus is treated with special excimer laser ablation and moderate keratoconus is treated with intraocular ring implantation.

CAUSES

  • Lack of collagen in the cornea.
  • Vigorous eye rubbing.
  • It can be hereditary in 1 out of 10 people

SYMPTOMS

  • Blurry vision.
  • Distorted images.
  • Progressive deterioration of vision.
  • Glare and eye irritation.

DIAGNOSIS

The diagnosis of keratoconus relies on the utilization of topographic imaging technology, which facilitates the early detection and monitoring of the condition. Topographers are highly advanced instruments capable of identifying keratoconus at its incipient stage or even before significant progression. 

TREATMENT

Traditionally, the management of keratoconus involved the use of contact lenses until the cornea deteriorated to a point where a corneal transplant was necessary. However, advancements in the treatment of keratoconus have brought about significant improvements for patients. Consequently, depending on the severity of the condition, the following treatment modalities are available:

MORE INFORMATION ABOUT KERATOCONUS

How is Keratoconus diagnosed?

A comprehensive diagnostic approach for keratoconus involves the implementation of pachymetry, a precise examination that accurately measures the corneal thickness. This vital assessment enables the surgeon to determine the most appropriate treatment plan tailored to the patient's unique characteristics. In addition to identifying irregular corneal contours, pachymetry plays a crucial role in monitoring the efficacy of crosslinking treatment for keratoconus and verifying the specific improvements achieved by the patient.

What causes Keratoconus?

Despite ongoing research in this field, keratoconus remains a condition that is not fully understood in terms of its etiology. However, it has been established that keratoconus is not primarily a hereditary disease, with a 1 in 10 chance of inheritance.

What is evident is that the corneal deformation occurs as a result of collagen deficiency, leading to progressive corneal thinning and the development of a conical shape in advanced stages. This poses a significant challenge for eye surgeons as they strive to address the disease's progression. Vigorous eye rubbing has been identified as one of the associated causes of keratoconus, emphasizing the importance of educating patients about the potential risks associated with eye rubbing.

What are the symptoms of Keratoconus?

Blurry vision and image distortion are the initial manifestations of keratoconus. Typically, these symptoms manifest towards the end of the first decade or the beginning of the second decade of life. The progression of the disease is often slow, spanning a period of 10 to 20 years before reaching a stable state.

During the initial stages, visual impairment may be mild, resulting in symptoms such as glare, light sensitivity, and ocular irritation.

Both eyes can be affected by keratoconus, although the rate of progression may vary between them. As the condition advances, the cornea becomes progressively thinner and assumes a more irregular shape, leading to a significant increase in astigmatism that cannot be adequately corrected with traditional eyeglasses. This particular circumstance serves as a crucial indicator for suspecting the presence of keratoconus in its early stages.

What is the treatment for Keratoconus?

In the past, the approach to managing keratoconus primarily involved the use of contact lenses until the cornea reached a point where its normal and optimal qualities were compromised, necessitating a corneal transplant. However, it is important to note that corneal transplantation is a highly intricate surgical procedure associated with various risks, including the potential for rejection of the transplanted corneal tissue. Consequently, the treatment options for keratoconus have evolved to better serve the well-being of patients. At Bogota Laser, we are committed to guiding individuals seeking to address this condition and obtain comprehensive information about keratoconus surgery in Bogota.

NEWS ABOUT Keratoconus surgery

Book your appointment