View source for Intrastromal corneal ring segments

[[Image:Intacsonfinger2.jpg|thumb|right|180px|A pair of ''Intacs<sup>®</sup>'' inserts.]] 

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==Overview==
'''Intrastromal corneal rings''' (or '''intracorneal rings''') are small devices implanted in the [[eye]] to correct [[visual perception|vision]]. A typical vision correction using corneal rings would involve an [[ophthalmologist]] making a small incision in the [[cornea]] of the eye, and inserting two crescent or semi-circular shaped ring segments between the layers of the corneal [[stroma]], one on each side of the [[pupil]]. The embedding of the rings in the cornea has the effect of flattening the cornea and changing the [[refraction]] of light passing through the cornea on its way into the eye.

Corneal rings are typically used for patients with mild to moderate [[nearsightedness]] (1 to 3 [[diopter]]s of correction and 1 diopter or less of [[astigmatism]]). An advantage over other surgical vision correction procedures like [[Photorefractive keratectomy|PRK]] or [[LASIK]] is that the implants are removable, which could allow for reversal or partial reversal of the correction, or replacement with different rings to change the amount of correction. Additional advantages are a lower risk of side effects, and a greater success rate of achieving the desired correction.

Potential complications are similar to other surgical vision correction procedures, and include [[infection]] and vision distortions, particularly problems with night vision.

The ring segments themselves are made of [[PMMA]] (an [[acrylic glass]] more commonly known under the tradenames Perspex or Plexiglas). The leading manufacturer is Addition Technology, which markets the rings under the trade name Intacs.

==See also==
*[[Eye surgery]]

==External links==
*[http://www.getintacs.com GetIntacs.com]

[[Category:Ophthalmology]]


[[de:Intra Cornea Ring]]

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