Corneal allogenic intrastromal ring segment (CAIRS) implantation is an effective and safe treatment for improving vision and stabilizing corneal shape in patients with keratoconus, according to a study. The procedure leads to significant improvements in both uncorrected and best corrected visual acuity, as well as a reduction in corneal curvature and high order aberrations, with no adverse effects on corneal thickness or endothelial cell density.
Researchers reviewed the medical records of 23 patients who received CAIRS implants. The procedure involved creating a precise tunnel in the cornea using a femtosecond laser, into which a ring segment prepared from a donor cornea was implanted.
Key findings from the study include:
- Uncorrected visual acuity improved from 0.08 preoperatively to 0.40 at 6 months, and best corrected visual acuity increased from 0.25 to 0.68 over the same period.
- Significant flattening of the corneal curvature was observed, indicating a reduction in keratoconus severity.
- Coma aberration values decreased across all postoperative visits.
- The procedure did not affect corneal thickness or endothelial cell density significantly.
The study concludes that CAIRS implantation is a promising and safe treatment option for enhancing visual acuity and stabilizing corneal shape in keratoconus patients.
Reference
Kirgiz A, Kemer Atik B, et al. Clinical outcomes of femtosecond laser-assisted corneal allogenic intrastromal ring segment (CAIRS) in the treatment of keratoconus. Clin Exp Ophthalmol. 2024;doi: 10.1111/ceo.14411. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38938058.
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