Intacs/Graft

[Stef23]

Sorry to appear ignorant but can someone please explain to me the difference between intacs and a graft. Thank you.

[Anne Klepacz]

Hi Stef23
Intacs are little plastic rings which are inserted in the cornea to flatten the shape and make it easier to fit contact lenses. The procedure is usually used for mild to moderate KC when there is no scarring on the cornea, and the cornea has to be a certain thickness for Intacs to be an option. I think you said in earlier posts that you had had hydrops (where the back of the cornea tears) which would rule out Intacs for you.
A corneal graft or transplant involves removing your cornea and replacing it with a donor cornea which is stitched into place. You'll find more information on the home page of this website under treatment options. And if you're not already on our postal mailing list, do e-mail me your postal address anne@keratoconus-group.org.uk and I can send you our basic information booklet about keratoconus and DVDs of past conferences which included excellent talks from consultants and other health professionals on transplants and other treatment options.
All the best
Anne