At Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, physicians use a procedure called Intacs to treat keratoconus, a degenerative condition that changes the shape of the cornea over time, impairing vision. Keratoconus affects approximately one in 2,000 people in the United States.
In the early stages of keratoconus, soft contact lenses can improve vision. As the condition progresses, rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses may be needed. Until recently, if RGP contacts became difficult to wear, a corneal transplantation was the last resort.
Now, Intacs can be used improve vision and reduce the distortion caused by keratoconus. Insertion of Intacs is a minor outpatient procedure performed within 20 minutes with little to no discomfort. Illinois Masonic Medical Center physicians are the most experienced in the Intacs procedure in the Chicagoland area.
The goal of Intacs is to slow down or stop the progression of the keratoconus. Patients who have had an Intacs procedure can usually return to wearing soft contact lenses or glasses. In some cases, the Intacs may correct their vision complete.
Are You a Candidate for Intacs? To find out if you're a candidate for Intacs, call 773.296.3937 to schedule a complimentary consultation or request a consultation online.
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