Abstract
Purpose: :
To report the effect of Corneal Cross- Linking using Riboflavin and UV Irradiation on Keratoconic eyes
Methods: :
Corneal- Cross Linking was performed on 15 keratoconic eyes where progression of the disease was observed.Riboflavin 0.1% was applied to the cornea till degree of saturation was achieved. The epithelium was partially removed from corneas (scratches were done on the epithelium). The corneas were exposed to Ultraviolet light (365-370 nm) with intensity of 3mW/cm2, 5cm away from the cornea for 30 minutes. Following the treatment a therapeutic contact lens was applied to the cornea and topical antibiotics were prescribed till full epithelisation was achieved.
Results: :
No wound healing problems or complications were observedNo loss of UCVA or BCVA. On the contrary, 66% observed improvement in the UCVA & BCVA between 1-3 lines. Decrease in myopia in 7/15 and 9/15 treated eyes had decrease in their astigmatism. Generally there was less glare and improvement in the quality of vision among the treated eyes.
Conclusions: :
Corneal Cross Linking is safe and effective treatment for Keratoconus if performed for the known indications.Further studies are needed to determine how long the efficacy of treatment lasts.
Keywords: keratoconus • clinical (human) or epidemiologic studies: outcomes/complications • cornea: clinical science