Femtolaser intrastromal implantation of segments using a digital marking device in surgical treatment of keratoconus

The purpose of the study is the clinical-functional evaluation and development of intrastromal keratoplasty using a digital marking device in patients with keratoconus. Material and Methods. 60 patients (60 eyes) diagnosed with second degree keratoconus were included in the study. The patients were from 19 to 35 years old. 30 patients (30 eyes) were included in the main group and underwent femtolaser intrastromal keratoplasty controlled by the Verion Digital Marker digital marking device (Alcon, USA). 30 patients (30 eyes) were included in the control group and underwent standard femtolaser intrastromal keratoplasty. Results. By the end of the observation period we recorded an increase in uncorrected visual acuity from an average of 0.25 to 0.6, as well as corrected visual acuity from an average of 0.5 to 0.7 in the main group. Visual acuity was lower in control group, which was probably due to the fact that cyclotorsia was not taken into consideration during surgery. In the course of dynamic observation, we recorded a decrease in keratometry indices in the main group in the course of 3 months, next, in the following 12 months their stabilization was observed. In the course of dynamic observations in the main group, we recorded a decrease in keratometry indices in the course of 3 months, next, in the following 12 months their stabilization was observed. Conclusion. Application of Verion navigation system during intrastromal keratoplasty using a femtosecond laser with consideration of eye cyclotorsia has shown high efficiency in achieving precise positioning of the corneal segments.