Purpose of the Study
This study aims to develop a safe and effective clinical guideline for the surgical management of keratoconus, facilitating the selection of appropriate treatment modalities based on corneal classification, disease severity, and individual anatomical characteristics. By integrating current evidence and surgical options, the guideline is intended to assist healthcare professionals in making informed, patient-specific decisions that improve visual outcomes and minimising risks.
Method
This study employed a qualitative research design using content analysis to develop a clinical guideline for surgical options for keratoconus patients. The approach it was chosen to systematically examine and synthesize contemporary knowledge, expert opinions, and clinical practices presented in ophthalmology and optometry latest conferences. This method leads and allowed for the extraction of relevant themes and trends that inform surgical decision-making based on corneal classification, disease severity, and anatomical factors.
Result
Based on the comprehensive literature review, corneal classification criteria, and expert clinical input, a stepwise guideline was developed to support individualized surgical decision-making in keratoconus cases management. These guideline stratifies patients by disease severity, corneal morphology, and anatomical limitations to recommend the most suitable treatment or combination thereof.
Conclusions
The proposed surgical guideline for managing keratoconus provides a thorough, evidence-driven framework for addressing this progressive corneal condition. By categorizing patients according to the severity of their disease, corneal shape, and anatomical characteristics, the guideline supports tailored treatment plans that align with each individual’s specific clinical profile
