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CAIRS

CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments) is an exciting and new revolutionary treatment option for keratoconus where carefully prepared corneal transplant tissue strips are cut into segments and implanted into the keratoconic cornea.

The goal of the CAIRS procedure is to flatten and stabilise the cornea, improving its shape and reducing irregularities.

This can lead to improved vision and potentially delay or avoid the need for more invasive procedures like corneal transplantation.

The surgery can be performed at Charlestown Private Hospital if you have private health insurance, or in our own onsite clinic for those patients who are uninsured.

This procedure represents an advancement in keratoconus treatment, offering a less invasive alternative to full corneal transplantation in suitable cases.

 

Q: How does the surgery work?

In CAIRS, a laser is used to create a ring-shaped tunnels in your cornea. The tunnel creation is completely painless and the patient does not lose any vision. It takes approximately 9 seconds to create these tunnels with the laser. Following the laser, a carefully prepared ring-shaped corneal tissue is carefully inserted into the tunnel created in your cornea.

A small, similar shaped ring of donor corneal tissue is threaded into the tunnel in your cornea.  This ring of corneal tissue improves the strength, rigidity and overall shape of your cornea. The segments causes a flattening and regularisation of the cornea which strengthens the cornea and can improve vision with and without glasses.

Q: What are the benefits?

  • Vision Improvement: CAIRS can enhance visual acuity by reshaping the cornea, which can reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

  • Minimally Invasive: The procedure is relatively less invasive compared to full corneal transplants, involving only the insertion of ring segments into the corneal stroma.

  • Stability: It can help stabilise the cornea, preventing further deterioration of vision in conditions like keratoconus.

  • Reversibility: The segments can be removed or adjusted if necessary, providing flexibility in treatment.

  • Short Recovery Time: Many patients experience a quick recovery and can return to normal activities soon after the procedure.

  • Reduced Risk of Complications: Compared to full corneal transplants, CAIRS carries a lower risk of complications, such as rejection.

  • Outpatient Procedure: It is typically performed on an outpatient basis, requiring no overnight hospital stay.

  • Customisable: The procedure can be tailored to the individual’s specific corneal shape and degree of irregularity.

Cross Linking

Corneal crosslinking is one of the safest and most effective ways to treat progressive Keratoconus.

Glasses or rigid gas permeable contact lenses are generally the first treatment option for patients with mild keratoconus. Patients with moderate keratoconus who are at risk of worsening or who are already worsening are often recommended ultraviolet corneal crosslinking.

Crosslinking takes about 60 minutes and is not a painful procedure. In the rare event, the condition continues to progress, the treatment can be repeated. In some cases, your doctor may use a combination of crosslinking, CAIRS and intraocular lenses to treat the condition. Patients with advanced keratoconus that don’t respond to crosslinking surgery may require a corneal transplant.

Q: How does the surgery work?

  • Riboflavin Drops: The doctor puts riboflavin (a vitamin) drops on your cornea.

  • UV Light: The cornea is then exposed to UV light for about 30 minutes.

  • Strengthening: This process helps strengthen the cornea by creating links between its collagen fibers.

  • Stabilisation: The goal is to stop the cornea from getting weaker and improve vision.

  • Healing: After the procedure, the cornea heals over a few days

Q: What are the benefits?

  • Halts Progression: CXL stabilises the cornea, preventing further deterioration in shape and vision.

  • Improved Vision: Many patients experience better visual acuity and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses.

  • Minimally Invasive: The procedure is relatively simple and can be done on an outpatient basis.

  • Quick Recovery: Most patients recover quickly, often returning to normal activities within a few days.

  • Reduced Risk of Transplant: By stabilising the cornea, CXL can decrease the need for more invasive surgeries, like corneal transplants.

  • Long-lasting Effects: The benefits of the procedure can last for many years, making it a durable option for managing corneal conditions.

  • Safety: CXL is considered safe with a low risk of serious complications.

Accreditations

Hunter Laser VisionHunter Laser Vision

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29 Northcott Drive Kotara 2289
1800 44 20 20
hlv@hunterlaservision.com.au

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