J Cataract Refract Surg 2003; 29:322–328

Magda Rau, MD, Dieter Dausch, MD 

Purpose: To evaluate the efficacy, predictability, and stability of refraction obtained after intrastromal corneal ring segment (ICRS) implantation for low to moderate myopia  

Setting: Single-center clinical practice.  

Methods: In this prospective 2-surgeon study, 9 patients (15 eyes) with low to moderate myopia were recruited to receive ICRS implants.  

Results: At 1 day, 10 of the 15 eyes had an uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA) of 20/40 or better. At 12 months, all eyes had this UCVA and 66.6% had 20/25 or better. The mean manifest refraction stabilized after the first week at <−0.5 diopter (D). At 12 months, all eyes were within ±1.0 D of the intended manifest refraction; 67% were within ±0.5 D. Sixty percent of eyes had no change from the preoperative best corrected visual acuity; 13.3% improved by 1 line, and 26.6% lost 1 line. The postoperative complications included lamellar channel deposits (n = 12), ICRS dislocation (n = 2), corneal infiltrates (n = 2), bleeding in the positioning ring hole (n = 1), 0.3 mm segment decentration (n = 1), and prolonged wound healing (n = 1).  

Conclusions: Intrastromal corneal ring segment implantation for the correction of low to moderate myopia afforded good visual recovery and efficacy similar to that with laser in situ keratomileusis and superior to that with photorefractive keratectomy. However, light or blunt trauma and insufficient hygiene can have serious consequences and there is the potential for induced astigmatism. Corneal infiltrates can occur and must be treated immediately. The ring implantation technique is demanding. Advantages of ICRS implantation include rapid and stable visual recovery as well as reversibility.