New causes, symptoms and treatments

A step towards a clear vision with Dr. Mehran Zarei Qanawati

Keratoconus, or keratoconus, is one of the complex and progressive eye diseases that can gradually reduce the quality of people’s vision and cause serious vision challenges. With the advancement of medical science and new technologies, several treatments have been provided to control and even restore the damaged cornea, which have given many hopes to patients in this field. Corneal transplant, as one of the effective solutions in the advanced stages of this disease, has been able to create a great transformation in improving the vision and quality of life of patients. We are looking to introduce new methods for the treatment of keratoconus. We will also get to know Dr. Mehran Zarei Kanavati, cornea specialist and professor at Tehran University of Medical Sciences, who has high experience and knowledge in eye surgeries such as correction of refractive errors, cataracts, and advanced corneal transplant techniques, including stem cell transplants and artificial corneas, and is considered a reliable reference in this field. The purpose of this article is to raise awareness about keratoconus disease and provide complete information about the treatment of keratoconus and its latest treatment methods. This article examines the causes, symptoms, and recent treatment advances to provide a clearer perspective to patients and their families, and to answer frequently asked questions about the cost of corneal transplants.

Corneal hump what is it Comprehensive understanding of an eye disease

Keratoconus, medically known as keratoconus, is a progressive eye disease in which the cornea, the clear, dome-shaped part at the front of the eye, gradually thins and takes on a conical or humped appearance instead of its normal spherical shape. This deformation in the cornea does not focus the light rays entering the eye properly and as a result leads to blurred vision, sensitivity to light and seeing halos around light sources. This condition can occur in one or both eyes and usually begins during adolescence or early twenties.

Early detection of keratoconus is very important, because with the progression of the disease, the vision problems worsen and the options Treatment of keratoconus They become more limited. The prevalence of this disease varies in different populations, but it affects about 1 in 2,000 people. Recognizing the early symptoms and visiting an ophthalmologist for regular examinations can help maintain the quality of vision and manage the disease more effectively.

Causes and risk factors: Why does keratoconus occur?

Keratoconus is a progressive disease in which the cornea of ​​the eye gradually thins and becomes conical. Understanding the causes and risk factors of this disease is vital for its prevention and timely diagnosis. One of the most important factors is genetic predisposition; Although keratoconus does not always have a clear inheritance pattern, family history is observed in about 10% of cases, which indicates the role of genes in its occurrence.

Intense and chronic eye rubbing is also considered one of the key risk factors. This action can damage the delicate tissues of the cornea and accelerate its thinning process. In addition, certain underlying diseases such as Down syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, and retinitis pigmentosa are associated with an increased risk of developing keratoconus. Eye allergies and chronic inflammation of the eye can also indirectly contribute to the development of the disease by stimulating the person to rub the eye. Certain environmental factors and even long-term use of inappropriate contact lenses have also been studied as facilitating factors. Identifying these factors helps doctors in providing suitable treatment solutions for keratoconus.

Signs and symptoms of keratoconus: early diagnosis for effective treatment

Early diagnosis Corneal hump To begin with Treatment of keratoconus And effective disease management is critical. The disease usually begins with relatively mild initial symptoms that gradually progress. Early symptoms include increasing blurring of vision that is not fully corrected with regular glasses or contact lenses. People may experience diplopia, especially when looking at distant objects. Sensitivity to light (photophobia) and seeing halos around light sources, especially at night, are other common symptoms.

with progress Corneal humpThese symptoms are aggravated and the quality of the person’s vision is severely affected. For accurate diagnosis, ophthalmologists use different methods. One of the most important and advanced diagnostic tools is corneal topography. This method, by creating a precise map of the corneal surface, detects the smallest changes in curvature and its characteristic irregularities. Corneal hump is, identifies Other investigations including pachymetry (measurement of corneal thickness) and abiometry also help to complete the diagnosis. Timely detection of the possibility of planning for Treatment of keratoconus provides and may require more advanced measures such as Corneal transplant delay or even prevent it in the early stages.

New approaches to treatment of keratoconus: from stabilization to restoration of vision

With significant advances in ophthalmology, Treatment of keratoconus It has entered a new phase, the goal of which is not only to stabilize the progress of the disease, but also to restore and significantly improve the vision of patients. These new approaches include a wide range of options, ranging from minimally invasive procedures to advanced surgeries. in the past, Corneal hump It often resulted in severe vision loss, but today, with modern techniques, life expectancy with quality vision has increased for patients. Methods such as cross-linking to stabilize the cornea and in more advanced cases, options such as Corneal transplant It is suggested that each one has its own advantages and their choice depends on the severity and progress of the disease.

Cross-linking: stopping the progression of the disease

Crosslinking is one of the first and most important new methods in the treatment of keratoconus, which aims to stop the progression of this disease. The mechanism of action of this method is that eye drops containing vitamin B2 (riboflavin) are first dripped on the cornea. Then, by irradiating ultraviolet rays (UVA) to the cornea, riboflavin is activated and causes the creation of new cross-links between the collagen fibers of the cornea. This process helps to strengthen the corneal tissue and increase its strength, thereby preventing its further thinning and deformation.

Good candidates for crosslinking are usually young people whose keratoconus is progressing and whose corneas have not yet thinned severely. The expected results of this treatment are stabilizing the condition of the cornea and preventing further deterioration of vision. In many cases, crosslinking effectively halts the progression of keratoconus and can delay or eliminate the need for more invasive procedures such as corneal transplantation.

Intracorneal rings (ICRS): improvement of corneal shape and vision

Intracorneal rings (ICRS), as an advanced approach in the treatment of keratoconus, play an important role in changing the shape and improving the function of the cornea. This method involves placing two small semicircular pieces of transparent polymer material in the middle layers of the cornea. The main purpose of these rings is to restore the natural curvature of the cornea and reduce the bulge caused by keratoconus, which in turn helps to regularize the surface of the cornea and reduce irregular astigmatism.

With ICRS implantation, the pressure is redistributed around the center of the cornea, making the central part smoother. This structural change, in addition to improving the overall shape of the cornea, directly increases the quality of vision by reducing distortions and blurred vision. Intacs are often recommended for patients whose keratoconus is not very advanced and has not yet reached the stage of corneal transplantation, and can improve the patient’s vision and reduce the need for hard contact lenses. This method is one of the effective options for maintaining and improving vision in patients with keratoconus.

Intraocular lenses Advanced: A vision correction solution

After completing the initial stages of keratoconus treatment, some patients may still have residual refractive errors that make it difficult to achieve the best quality of vision. These lenses are usually suitable for people who have good vision with glasses. Advanced intraocular lenses are considered a new solution to complete the treatment process of keratoconus and the final improvement of vision. These lenses are implanted in the eye with high precision and are able to effectively correct residual astigmatism, nearsightedness or farsightedness that may be present even after procedures such as corneal transplantation. The goal of using these lenses is to help patients achieve clearer vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, which significantly affects their quality of life.

Corneal transplant: The latest solution and new techniques with the expertise of Dr. Zarei Qanawati

In cases where the keratoconus disease has reached advanced stages and other treatment methods such as glasses, special contact lenses, or cross-linking are no longer able to improve vision, corneal transplantation is proposed as the last and most effective solution. This complex surgery aims to replace the damaged cornea with a healthy donor tissue so that the patient can regain his sight and improve his quality of life.

Modern corneal grafting techniques have made significant advances and are no longer limited to full-thickness (PK) grafting. Today, methods such as deep anterior lamina grafting (DALK), which replaces only the damaged layers of the cornea and preserves the patient’s healthy inner layer, are preferred due to the reduced risk of transplant rejection and accelerated recovery. Usually, people with keratoconus do not need corneal stem cell transplantation or artificial corneas.

Choosing the right technique and its precise implementation requires the expertise and experience of the surgeon. Dr. Mehran Zarei Qanawati, with years of experience and skill in the field of eye surgery and especially corneal transplant, is considered one of the pioneers of using new techniques in Iran. By applying advanced methods that are also used in international reputable centers, they have achieved successful results in the treatment of patients with advanced keratoconus. Paying attention to the details and expertise of the surgeon is vital at this stage; Because the success of the cornea transplant and the quality of the patient’s final vision are directly dependent on the skill and knowledge of the surgical team. Along with the medical aspects, considering the various aspects of the surgery, including the cost of the corneal transplant, is one of the things that patients should consult with their doctor.

Corneal transplant costs and factors affecting it

Corneal transplantation, which is one of the effective methods of “curing keratoconus” in advanced stages of the disease, requires consideration of its financial aspects. “Cornea transplant cost” can be affected by several factors. The selected treatment center will affect the “cost of cornea transplant”. Insurance coverage for this type of surgery also varies depending on the type of insurance and its conditions and can cover a significant part of the costs.

Prevention and management: recommendations for maintaining eye health

To prevent the exacerbation of keratoconus and to effectively manage it, it is necessary to follow key recommendations. The most important step is to strictly avoid rubbing the eye, as this can damage the weak corneal tissue and accelerate the progression of keratoconus. Regular eye examinations, at least once a year, are vital for early detection of changes and proper planning of keratoconus treatment. In these examinations, the specialist can provide preventive and therapeutic solutions, including options to prevent the need for a cornea transplant in the future, by carefully examining the condition of the cornea. Observance of these things is complementary to the treatment of keratoconus and helps to maintain eye health and vision.

Conclusion: A look at a bright future with modern ophthalmology

In general, keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that can be controlled and vision preserved with early diagnosis and the use of modern treatments. It is very important to refer to experienced specialists to carefully check the symptoms and choose the best treatment method for keratoconus. Significant advances in the field of ophthalmology, including new methods of corneal stabilization and corneal transplantation, have brought hope for a brighter future and improved quality of life for patients with keratoconus. These approaches promise to restore vision and ensure eye health.