Update on nonexcimer laser refractive surgery technique: conductive keratoplasty

Excimer laser-based refractive surgery techniques have been the most popular forms to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. However, development of non-excimer based refractive surgery such as thermal techniques provides a viable alternative to laser vision correction. Earlier forms of thermal techniques showed a lack of predictability and stability, resulting in the abandonment of the further development of these techniques. Recently, conductive keratoplasty, a laserless, radiofrequency-based technique, has been approved by the FDA for the correction of low to moderate hyperopia. Preliminary data showed that conductive keratoplasty seems to be safe, effective, and showed good refractive stability. This review will discuss recent studies on conductive keratoplasty technique in terms of its efficacy, safety, refractive predictability, and stability.