Conductive Keratoplasty

Eye Associates patients have a new option for near vision correction. It is a procedure called Conductive Keratoplasty, or CK, and it has recently been approved by the FDA. CK is a procedure that corrects reading vision by using the controlled release of low-level radiofrequency (RF) energy, instead of a laser, to reshape the cornea. It is performed in just a few minutes with only topical anesthetic in the form of eye drops. How CK Works The physician uses a small probe, thinner than a strand of human hair, which releases radio frequency (RF) energy. The probe is applied in a circular pattern on the outer cornea to shrink small areas of corneal tissue. This circular shrinkage pattern creates a constrictive band–like the tightening of a belt-increasing the overall curvature of the cornea. Who is a good candidate for CK? Always had great vision until needing reading glasses in your 40's or 50's. No physical conditions such as diabetes, pregnancy or nursing, and vascular or autoimmune diseases. No eye conditions such as glaucoma, severe dryness, keratoconus, herpes of the eye, aggressive keloid formation or corneal dystrophy. No drastic changes in vision or eyeglass prescription within the past year. The difference between CK and LASIK treatments. A major difference is that CK does not use a laser and does not involve cutting the cornea. The outcomes for the procedures compare favorably. According to the academic journal Ophthalmology (April, 2002), the acuity, predictability and stability of sight after CK are better than or as good as that achieved by LASIK (laser assisted in-situ keratomileusis) and LTK (non-contact laser thermal keratoplasty). LASIK is a refractive procedure in which a laser is used to create a microscopic flap in the cornea. It then sculpts corneal tissue underneath so that the cornea will form a more effective shape. The flap is closed and heals shut. If you are interested in learning more about CK and would like to see if you qualify, please contact us to set up a free consultation.