How are Intacs used in the treatment of keratoconus?
Intacs were approved by the FDA in 1999 for treatment of mild myopia and astigmatism. In July 2004, the manufacturer received a Humanitarian Device Exemption for the use of Intacs to treat keratoconus in patients who no longer achieve adequate functional vision with contact lenses or eyeglasses. This procedure helps to restore functional vision and potentially defers the need for a corneal transplant procedure. Surgical treatment of keratoconus with Intacs is reversible and less invasive than penetrating keratoplasty (PK). Recovery time is faster, and the cost is considerably lower. Patients may even be able to wear contact lenses again. PK at a later time is not precluded, if it becomes necessary. Q: Is this procedure covered by insurance? It depends on the reason for the procedure. Most insurance plans do not cover cosmetic refractive surgery. For patients with keratoconus who can still obtain functional vision with contacts or eyeglasses, but prefer not to wear them, this procedure
