Developed by Paolo Ferrara in Brazil, these semi-circular inserts are used for the correction of post Lasik ectasia and keratoconus. These were developed specifically for Keratoconus and have been used extensively in Brazil. Centre for Sight have used Ferrara rings in the UK since 2001.

Keratoconus is an abnormality of the cornea where it becomes cone-shaped. About 15% of individuals with keratoconus may need to have a corneal graft, however like the Intacs intracorneal ring segements, use of Ferrara rings may reduce or delay the need for a corneal graft. Long term data with regards to delay in transplantation is not yet available for both Ferrara rings and Intacs. The majority of patients require spectacles or contact lenses following Intacs and Ferrara ring procedures.

The Ferrara rings are placed within the substance of the cornea and work by altering the shape flattening the centre and in the case of Keratoconus, regularizing the central cornea. This reduces high astigmatism and by flattening the cornea reduces shortsightedness frequently found in Keratoconus.

These are smaller than INTACS and although small they are less likely to produce glare as they are shaped like a prism. Any light entering the ring is reflected back out again away from the visual pathway. Because these are smaller and positioned closer to the centre of the cornea, they are more powerful and can reduce myopia up to -12.00 D. Glare has been reported in some individuals with large pupils. Intacs are thus preferred by us at Centre for Sight, UK in those with large pupils.

A thorough consultation is performed at Centre for Sight to ensure suitability of the procedure and also plan the process. At Centre for Sight Ferrara rings are principally used for the treatment of Keratoconus and ectasia with good success.

The procedure is performed under Drop anaesthetic and takes less than 10 minutes. A small carefully planned 1mm incision is made using the Intralase Femtosecond laser (see below) and channels created in the cornea. The rings are then slipped into place. Drops are placed in the eye along with a contact lens.

Follow up care is necessary and is conducted the day after surgery, one, three and six months following surgery. Patients are highly recommended follow up care on a regular basis by their optometrist or ophthalmologist.

At Centre for Sight, UK we use the Intralase Femtosecond laser to create the channels for the Ferrara and Intacs rings. This precise Intralase laser separates the cornea in a precise fashion at the right depth rather than a circular blade used in conventional intracorneal ring procedures. The advantage is the procedure is quicker, more comfortable and precise. Additionally using the Intralase laser we at Centre for Sight have been able to adjust the channel diameter and obtain remarkable results in this type of surgery. For more on intralase click here INTRALASE.