Conductive Keratoplasty
What is Conductive Keratoplasty?
Conductive Keratoplasty, or CK, is an alternative to typical laser surgeries for people who are over forty and have hyperopia, astigmatism, or presbyopia. Developed by Refractec, the process received FDA approval for reduction of hyperopia and in March 2004 received first and FDA approval for vision technology that improves presbyopia.
Conductive Keratoplasty Process
Conductive Keratoplasty uses heat from radio frequency wave instead of a laser to shrink the collagen fibers in order to steepen the cornea. After anesthetic drops have been applied and have taken affect, a probe with a special tip that transfers radio frequencies is used to administer eight to thirty-two uniform treatment spots around the periphery area of the cornea. In Refractec's NearVision CK, a foot pedal is used to transmit the radio frequency energy. The heat from the radio frequency is designed to shrink the collagen of the area and cause the cornea to steepen to a very high degree. Less regression is expected due to the uniform delivery of heat and deep shrinkage of collagen.
Conductive Keratoplasty Candidates
People are best suited for Conductive Keratoplasty if they are over 40, have healthy eyes, have had stable vision for at least six months, and have hyperopia in the range from +0.75 to +3.00 diopters. There maybe other reasons why you could be a good or bad candidate and its best to ask your eye care doctor.
Refractec Conductive Keratoplasty
Conductive Keratoplasty and CK are registered service marks of Refractec, Inc. The Refractec website is the best place for eye care professionals and patients to learn more about one of the newest services in eye care. Visit Refractec for more on Conductive Keratoplasty.
[Page updated 12/2010]
