Conductive Keratoplasty
What is it?
CK is an alternative to laser treatment for hyperopic (farsightedness) and presbyopic patients. The surgeon reshapes the cornea by applying low radiofrequency energy in a circular pattern on the outer edge or periphery of the cornea. This is done by a small probe in a controlled release fashion. The treatment takes only a few minutes and is done by an ophthalmologist with only topical anesthetic.
Typically, only one eye is done for presbyopic patients to achieve monovision. If both eyes are to be done, as in a hyperopic patient, they are done on the same day.
Pros and Cons:
Pros:
- Mild postoperative discomfort
- Excellent safety profile
- Minimal risk in re-treatments
Cons:
- Fluctuating vision for a few weeks after the procedure
- Results are not permanent. The effect typically lasts one to three years.
- Limited to patients with mild farsightedness, less than + 2.50 diopters and have less than +0.75 diopters of astigmatism
Watch a video overview of Conductive Keratoplasty