NearVision CK is the first vision treatment specifically for baby boomers who want freedom from their reading glasses. CK is performed using the ViewPoint® CK System; the first FDA-approved technology for improving near vision in presbyopic patients. Nearly 90 million baby boomers have or will soon develop presbyopia, the most common eye condition in America.
Conductive Keratoplasty: Scientific Concept:
Research has discovered that the application of heat energy to the cornea can cause a shrinking of the corneal tissue (thermokeratoplasty). When applied in a specific pattern, this shrinkage can restore vision by steepening the cornea. CK builds upon the principles of thermokeratoplasty, using radiofrequency (RF) energy to reshape the cornea and adjust its refractive characteristics. More than 20 years of research into this technique have established the depth and temperature necessary to achieve refractive change.
Performing CK:
CK is relatively simple to perform. The physician uses a small probe, thinner than a strand of human hair, which releases RF energy. The probe is applied in a circular pattern on the outer cornea to shrink small areas of collagen. This circular shrinkage pattern creates a constrictive band (like the tightening of a belt), increasing the curvature of the cornea. The procedure, which takes less than three minutes, is done in-office with only topical anesthesia (eye drops).
From the Patient’s Perspective:
Before CK: Once the ophthalmologist has determined the patient is a candidate for CK, the patient’s cornea will be mapped with a computer to evaluate its curvature (refractive characteristics).
During CK: After applying drops to numb the eye to ensure the procedure is painless, the doctor imprints a treatment pattern on the cornea using rinse-away dye. The pattern guides the doctor’s treatment; each point represents a place where RF energy will be applied.
Once the cornea is marked, the doctor uses a small probe to apply radio waves in a circular pattern to reshape the cornea. The most common sensation that patients experience is a feeling of pressure on the eye.
After CK: The doctor applies antibiotic drops that the patient will continue using for several days, as per labeling. The patient may need to wear dark glasses after the CK treatment and use artificial tears for up to one week. As with other vision procedures, there may be some mild discomfort and light sensitivity for a few days, and many patients experience a foreign-object sensation or a slight "scratchiness" in the eye. This usually subsides within 24 hours of the treatment.
CK Patient Profile:
You may be a candidate for CK if you are: Over age 45; Had great distance vision your whole life; and Struggle with reading glasses for near vision.
RF Energy & Its Application:
Radiofrequency (RF) technology is one of todays most advanced medical therapies. In addition to its use in CK, RF technology is being used in prostate cancer therapy, back surgery, dermatology – even cardiovascular procedures.
By applying RF energy to the corneal tissue, Ohm's law (V = I R) defines a consistent relationship that determines the heat generated. The characteristics of the energy and the collagen tissue's consistent conductive properties make it possible for CK to achieve a reproducible, optimal tissue temperature to bring about the localized shrinkage of the collagen fibers.
