Other Surgical Methods of Vision Correction by David A. Wallace, M.D. While laser vision correction is extremely popular and effective for correction of a wide range of refractive errors, it is not the only method available for vision correction. We describe here various alternative treatment options, and the ranges of refractive error for which these techniques would be most appropriate.
To put these other options in perspective, excimer laser treatment can correct: More specific delineation of the FDA-approved range for each laser system, and manufacturer's recommendations, is available at the appropriate websites, which you can find on our Helpful Links page.
Other surgical methods discussed here include: - Cataract Surgery and Clear Lensectomy, which can reduce or eliminate nearsightedness and farsightedness within a very wide range, and can now also correct astigmatism as well;
- Phakic Lens Implants, which is an excellent option for correction of very high myopia (above the -10.00 range in eyes with normal corneal thickness), and in lower myopia ranges where corneal thickness would not support laser treatment adequately;
- Near-Vision CK, approved originally only for treatment of small amounts of farsightedness (up to about +2.00), now also FDA-approved as a treatment for presbyopia; and
- Intra-Corneal Ring insertion, initially approved for correction of small amounts of myopia (up to about -3.00), but not astigmatism. This procedure is not used anymore for refractive treatment, but is used currently as a salvage or temporizing procedure to treat eyes that have asymmetric thinning and irregular curvature. This typically includes eyes with keratoconus or ectasia.
|