UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

Hi all,

Maybe I'm on the ball or maybe I was the only one to tick the 'keep me informed' button on the NICE website but i've just received an email suggesting that they have issued full guidance on the use of corneal implants for KC.

Here's the link...

http://www.nice.org.uk/page.aspx?o=394745

Quick quotes

What has NICE said?
This procedure can be offered routinely as a treatment option for people with keratoconus, provided that doctors are sure that:
• the patient understands what is involved and agrees to the treatment, and
• the results of the procedure are monitored.

Interventional procedures guidance makes recommendations on the safety and efficacy of a procedure. The guidance does not cover whether or not the NHS should fund a procedure. Decisions about funding are taken by local NHS bodies (primary care trusts and hospital trusts)after considering the clinical effectiveness of the procedure and whether it represents value for money for the NHS.

Ed

Hi Eddie,

Not had my email yet, but it is good to see that NICE have said that corneal implants (INTACS®) can be routinely used as a treatment for KC.

With this guidance I hope that a lot more hospitals will now offer this procedure to suitable KC patients, and that these patients may benefit as I have.

For section 2.2.3

NICE guidance IPG227 wrote:2.2.3 If required, the implant can be removed at a
later date.

I'll take the credit for the inclusion of this as this small but crucial fact had been omitted from the original draft guidance.

It goes to show that one individual can, at times, make a big difference.

Thanks Eddie - I checked the NICE website a couple of days ago, when it was still saying the guidelines would be issued in the autumn, so it's good they're now out. And thanks to all the forum members who took part in the consultation - it's good to know that NICE do take account of patients' views!
Anne

Nice one Eddie
I like this team-work stuff! This is really helpful, I am most grateful.