CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments) in Mumbai – Kurla BKC, Kalina & Bandra W

CAIRS is an innovative surgical approach for keratoconus — a condition where the cornea progressively thins and bulges into a cone shape, distorting vision. By implanting donor corneal ring segments within the cornea's stroma, CAIRS reshapes and reinforces the cornea, improving vision and potentially delaying or eliminating the need for a corneal transplant.

What Is CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments)?

Unlike synthetic intrastromal rings (ICRS), CAIRS uses segments prepared from donated human corneal tissue. These allogenic segments are placed in channels created within the patient's own corneal stroma, filling and flattening the cone. The procedure is often combined with corneal cross-linking (CXL) to stabilise the keratoconus.

Who Is It For?

This procedure is generally suited to patients meeting the following criteria:

Moderate keratoconus with contact lens intolerance
Patients seeking to improve contact lens fit and unaided/corrected vision
Those wishing to delay corneal transplantation
Keratoconus with adequate residual stromal thickness

What Happens During the Procedure?

Each step is performed with precision and patient comfort in mind.

Step 1: Corneal topography and anterior segment OCT to plan ring placement
Step 2: Femtosecond laser creates precise intrastromal tunnels
Step 3: Donor ring segments inserted into the tunnels
Step 4: Often combined with CXL in the same session to halt progression

Recovery & What to Expect

Mild discomfort and blurred vision for 1–2 weeks. Vision and corneal shape stabilise over 3–6 months. Follow-up topography at 1, 3, and 6 months to assess the response.

Benefits

Patients choosing this procedure typically experience the following benefits:

Biological compatibility — uses donor corneal tissue, not synthetic material
Can significantly improve both unaided and best-corrected vision
Reversible — segments can be removed if needed
May restore contact lens tolerance in patients who had lost it

FAQFrequently Asked Questions

Is CAIRS the same as ICRS (Intacs)?

Both use intrastromal ring segments to reshape the cornea, but CAIRS uses donor human tissue while ICRS uses synthetic polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) rings. The biological compatibility of CAIRS may offer advantages in integration and remodelling.

Will CAIRS cure keratoconus?

No — it reshapes and stabilises but does not cure keratoconus. Combined with CXL, it can halt progression and significantly improve vision and quality of life.

Considering cairs?

Book a personalised consultation with Dr. Mickey. We'll evaluate your eyes carefully and walk you through whether this procedure is right for you.

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This page is informational only and is not a substitute for medical consultation. Eligibility, outcomes, and risks of any clinical procedure depend on an in-person assessment.