Modification of the Intrastromal Ring Position according to Postimplant Visual and Refractive Failure: Report of Two Cases

OBJECTIVE: The following report presents the adaptation of an existing technique of intrastromal corneal ring (ICRS) implantation enabling repositioning of the ring position postoperatively to manage a refractive failure in two patients with keratoconus. METHODS: In two cases, KeraRing and Ferrara nomograms had suggested different ring positions. To manage with the differences between the two nomograms, a longer corneal tunnel was created followed by the classic intervention to move the ring through the initial intrastromal corneal tunnel according to the topographic values. Once the first ring position has failed, the ring segment was repositioned along the longer corneal tunnel according to the postoperative outcome. RESULTS: Significant improvement in both cases was observed in the best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), uncorrected visual acuity (UCVA), and root mean square (RMS) measured with Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam; Oculus GmBH, Wetzlar, Germany). The participants were followed for one year. CONCLUSION: In patients with keratoconus which exhibit significant differences between KeraRing and Ferrara nomograms, a longer tunnel should be created to enable repositioning of the ring postoperatively if necessary, to avoid extracting the ring or changing it.