Considering Conductive Keratoplasty? Then Consider These Frequently Asked Questions

Conductive keratoplasty (CK) is an eye surgery performed to enhance and improve a patient's vision. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this eye surgery.

What is CK?
Much of the pre-op procedure for CK is the same as a refractive surgery. Patients will be settled into an operating chair, and the surgeon or a nurse will apply anesthetic eye drops. Once a patient's eyes are numb, the surgeon will apply a speculum. The operation is performed using a small stylus-like tool that emits radio waves. The waves are directed around the perimeter of the eye, causing the stroma to contract and reshape the cornea.

When is conductive keratoplasty the best option?
Conductive keratoplasty is most effective at treating age-related aberrations of the eye. It was first FDA approved for treating farsightedness in patients over the age of 40, though it is now also frequently used to correct focusing issues like presbyopia. Some doctors also use CK to treat astigmatism, though that operation is not yet FDA approved.

What's the difference between conductive keratoplasty and popular laser eye surgeries like LASIK?
The most obvious difference between CK and LASIK is that CK uses an instrument that emits radio waves whereas LASIK uses an excimer laser. Also, LASIK actually cuts the corneal tissue, and CK merely shrinks it. The CK method is ideal for older refractive surgery patients whereas most LASIK surgeons do not recommend the procedure for patients experiencing age-related vision loss.

How effective is CK?
Because CK is predominately used to correct age-related defects of the eye, the results are generally not as dramatic as those experienced by younger LASIK patients with more common, long-term aberrations. Also, because the conditions treated by CK may recur, patients may only enjoy the benefits of the surgery for 5 to 10 years before another operation becomes necessary.

If you have questions not addressed here it is advised that you contact a qualified corneal surgeon. They will be able to answer your questions relating to conductive keratoplasty and other laser vision correction procedures.