Intacs - Complications FAQ
Please select your question from the following list of FAQs:
What is the bottom line?
In general, there are potential risks with intacs, and it is still unknown whether the risk profile of intacs is lower than LASIK for patients with 1-3 diopters of myopia without astigmatism.
What are other possible types of problems with intacs?
The 410 patient study that was reviewed by the FDA found that 1% of patients lost one line of vision. One patient developed an infection, which cleared with antibiotics and removal of the rings. Other complications included perforation of the eye (because the incision was made too deep) and three superficial perforations (because the incision was too superficial). One very unique problem that can occur with intacs is visual fluctuations. A recent report was submitted by an optometrist who had the intacs procedure. He found that his vision fluctuated, with more myopia in the morning and slight hyperopia in the evening. It is believed that this fluctuation in vision is reduced over time.
Are there complications with Intacs?
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential complications with the intacs procedure. Approximately 6% of intacs are removed due to a variety of problems. Over and under corrections are common reason for intacs removal. A few patients also developed astigmatism following intacs placement. When these problems occur, the ring segments can be removed and replaced with a different size ring segment. This will often result in improved vision.