Conductive keratoplasty (CK)

Conductive keratoplasty (CK) is a corneal surgery based on theories and applications found in Laser Thermal Keratoplasty and LASIK. CK is based on correcting corneal abnormalities by reshaping the cornea. Conductive keratoplasty is primarily used to correct farsightedness in older patients.

Conductive keratoplasty creates a protrusion of the cornea through application of heat to the edges of the cornea. Instead of using a laser to do the same thing, Conductive keratoplasty uses radio frequency probes that direct heat toward the corneal tissue. CK consists of application of a more distributed area of heat on to the cornea, which may result in a longer lasting effect.

Conductive keratoplasty, like other technologically advanced eye surgeries, provides a quick and painless end to vision problems. Usually patients who undergo CK do not need eyeglasses or contact lenses, ever again.

Current applications of Conductive keratoplasty use the method alongside other accepted eye surgeries such as LASIK. The combination treatment often works in providing an even more advanced level of care and comfort for the patient, with the same long lasting results. Conductive keratoplasty and its application of radio frequency energy allows for a collagen shrinkage that requires no incisions or flap procedure.

The energy is released with a very small probe tip and is intrastromally inserted. The surface tissue of the cornea resists the probe and a heating of the tissue results, which shrinks the collagen around the cornea in a uniform manner.

Farsightedness, or "hyperopia," is usually a slight error in refraction of the eyes. People with hyperopia tend to have problems with focusing on things that are nearby instead of those that are more distant. This happens when the cornea is too flatly shaped and the light entering the eye becomes focused behind the retina rather than on top of it. The result is a strain on the eye, which attempts to refocus on the things it cannot focus on.

When the cornea is too flat there are many surgical procedures that can be performed that will make it protrude more. One specific surgery is conductive keratoplasty. Once the cornea is more protruded due to the stiffening of the collagen tissue of the cornea, normal eyesight is restored.

Combined with LASIK, Conductive keratoplasty can be especially effective. Consult only an experienced LASIK surgeon for all of your options. Your doctor will then determine the exact cause of your visual impairment and help you develop the best course of action for surgery. Conductive keratoplasty may be a part of a combined treatment if you have farsightedness. Make sure and only contact a qualified surgeon who is aware of surgeries like conductive keratoplasty and their related eye surgeries.

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