Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

05:22
Iris Fixation via External Pentagram Suturing
Published on: May 5, 2022
Microbial keratitis after INTACS implantation with loose suture
Hasan Hashemi1, Reza Ghaffari, Masood Mohammadi
1Department of Ophthalmology, Farabi Eye Research Center, Medical Sciences/Tehran University, Iran.
Summary
A rare, severe infection of the cornea (infectious keratitis) developed after keratoconus surgery using INTACS. Careful wound closure is vital to prevent this serious complication.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition requiring visual correction.
- Intracorneal ring segments (INTACS) are used to treat keratoconus.
- Infectious keratitis is a potential complication following ocular surgery.
Observation:
- A 32-year-old male presented with acute vision loss and eye pain post-INTACS implantation.
- Examination revealed corneal ulceration and a loose suture in the affected eye.
- The corneal ulcer rapidly worsened despite initial treatment.
Findings:
- Corneal scraping and button cultures confirmed Staphylococcus aureus infection.
- The patient required penetrating keratoplasty due to the aggressive infection.
- This case highlights a rare but severe post-operative complication.
Implications:
- Infectious keratitis is a significant risk after INTACS implantation for keratoconus.
- Meticulous surgical technique, particularly wound closure, is crucial.
- Attention to corneal contour and thickness may influence infection risk.
