Lions World Vision Institute expands OptiGraft CAIRS service

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Lions World Vision Institute (LWVI) announced an expansion of its OptiGraft CAIRS (Corneal Allogenic Intrastromal Ring Segments) service. The service will now include asymmetrical laser-cut CAIRS.

According to the company, this expansion will enhance the therapeutic options for corneal surgeons managing advanced cases of keratoconus and other corneal ectatic disorders.

The company describes OptiGraft CAIRS as an allogenic-based alternative to synthetic intrastromal ring segments, which offer biocompatibility and precision-crafted donor tissue for corneal remodeling. With the development of asymmetrically laser-cut segments, surgeons gain the ability to tailor ring sizes and geometries to match irregular corneal topographies and unique patient anatomy. This allows for greater surgical flexibility and precision in managing advanced keratoconus cases.

This is achieved by the creation of the asymmetrical ring segments with the Ziemer FEMTO LDV Z8 Femtosecond Laser Platform, which delivers ultrafast, micron-level precision cuts that exceed the accuracy and reproducibility of traditional manual techniques. This enables the company to provide a new standard in corneal surgery to our doctors and their patients. As with all CAIRS tissue provided by LWVI, each segment undergoes rigorous quality assurance and is backed by the institute’s commitment to innovation, education, and patient-centered care.

Jason Woody, President/CEO of Lions World Vision Institute is quoted in the news release sharing that the company is committed to providing surgeons with the tools to improve patient outcomes. He said, “This next evolution in OptiGraft CAIRS allows us to support surgeons treating highly asymmetric or irregular corneal topography where traditional CAIRS segments may fall short. We’re committed to staying at the forefront of allograft ocular solutions to improve clinical outcomes, and this expansion is another testament to that mission.”

The CAIRS technique was created in 2015, empowering surgeons to restore vision using human donor tissue that integrates naturally and safely. This latest enhancement provides greater off-the-shelf options to meet diverse surgical plans and patient needs.

Reference:

1. Lions World Vision Institute Expands OptiGraft® CAIRS Program to Include Asymmetrical Laser-Cut CAIRS, Broadening Surgical Options for Keratoconus Treatment. Lions World Vision Institute. News Release. September 10, 2025. Accessed September 17, 2025.