Long-term outcome of intrastromal corneal ring segments in keratoconus: Five-year follow up

To evaluate the effectiveness of intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) use in keratoconus after five years. ICRS has been widely used to correct astigmatism and improve visual acuity in keratoconus. Although the short-term outcome is well known to be effective, long-term outcome has rarely been reported. A retrospective chart review was done. A total of 30 eyes diagnosed with keratoconus and treated with INTACS (Addition Technology, Sunnyvale, CA, USA) were included. Visual acuity, refraction, indices of corneal irregularity, and higher-order aberration were evaluated at preoperative, two months, one year, three years, and five years postoperatively. Uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) and spherical and spherical equivalent were improved (p < 0.05) for three years. However, they worsened (p < 0.05) at five years to preoperative values. On the other hand, corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) was improved for five years (p < 0.05). Topographic keratometry was flattened, and corneal irregularity indices were improved at five years (all p < 0.05). Coma RMS was improved (p < 0.05) continuously for five years. ICRS has advantages in improving CDVA with topographic stabilization and decreasing coma in keratoconus for five years.