[Refraction ring-shaped tunnel keratoplasty in the correction of high-degree myopia]

A new method has been developed for diminishing the myopic eye refraction: refraction ring-like tunnel keratoplasty. The technique is simple, virtually atraumatic, and highly effective. It has been introduced in clinical practice. The method consists in placing a ring-shaped collagen thread ++para-centrally in the surface layers of the cornea. Experimental studies of refraction ring-like tunnel keratoplasty included staining the sections with hematoxylin and eosin and Kampos' silver impregnation. Changes in the transplant shape and the host cornea, as well as the terms of their innervation were studied in histologic sections. The results of 32 surgeries are analyzed. Essential reduction of the refraction in the myopic eye--12.0-15.0 diopters, vision acuity improvement in the operated on eyes without correction (in cases without astigmatism), and a stable refraction effect were achieved. The authors recommend the new method of refraction keratoplasty for practice.