Paired arcuate and circular keratotomy: Alternative intervention technique for Stage III and IV keratoconus

Dr. Samir A. Quawasmi DORCPI, DORCSI Cornea Specialized Clinic 1 Zahla Street 5th Circle Bader Medical Complex, 3rd Floor Amman, Jordan 11118 , one: 00-962-79-919-9155 , x: 00-962-06-593-6337 , mail: drquawasmi(at)gmail.com

Abstract

Purpose/Aim of the study: To report the outcomes of paired arcuate keratotomy coupled with a modified form of circular keratotomy in a single surgical procedure in eyes with stage III and IV keratoconus to reduce astigmatism, increase corneal volume, and improve visual acuity.

Materials and Methods: A retrospective, single-surgeon, single-center, clinic-based study of a surgical procedure on twenty-four eyes of fourteen patients diagnosed with Stage III or Stage IV keratoconus. Paired arcuate keratotomy coupled with modified circular keratotomy was performed at a single center by a single surgeon as an outpatient procedure with local anaesthetic in a minor surgery room. Modified circular keratotomy was performed 7 mm from the pupillary center with depth of incision ranging between 70% and 90% of corneal thickness. Arcuate keratotomy was performed 2.5 mm from the pupillary center with the depth of incision at 90% of corneal thickness. Angular length of the arcs ranged between 60° and 120° depending on the astigmatic power of the cornea.