Abstract
Purpose :
To compare the bulk modulus of crosslinked and non-crosslinked keratoconus corneas.
Methods :
Brillouin-shift maps were acquired (Brillouin Optical Scanner System (BOSS), Intelon Optics) in corneas with progressive keratoconus and in crosslinked corneas (>12 months postop). In addition, a longitudinal study was performed in 5 eyes up to 3 months after crosslinking. Brillouin-shifts were correlated to Scheimpflug keratoconus parameters.
Results :
A significant correlation was found between maximal posterior elevation and the weakest location in progressive keratoconus corneas. Crosslinked keratoconus corneas are significantly stiffer than non-crosslinked ones. The temporal course of CXL revealed a remodeling process, ongoing for at least 4 years. Brillouin frequency shift dropped substantially immediately after CXL, regaining preoperative values after 1 month and increasing above preoperative levels 3 months after CXL.
Conclusions :
In vivo Brillouin microscopy confirmed the focal weakening in keratoconus corneas and demonstrated the stiffening effect of crosslinking.
This abstract was presented at the 2019 ARVO Annual Meeting, held in Vancouver, Canada, April 28 - May 2, 2019.