Treatment for keratoconus

Cross-linking corneal eye cross-linking procedure

What does the corneal eye crosslinking (CXL) procedure consist of?

During the procedure, riboflavin is sprinkled on the cornea of the eye several times at an interval of a few seconds, then irradiated with a specially designed UV lamp. This makes the collagen fibers cross-link more strongly, which contributes to inhibiting the progression of corneal cone. The procedure is carried out under local anesthesia in the form of drops. Depending on the method used, it can last from 45 minutes to 1.5 hours (for both eyes).

The first follow-up visit takes place after a week, regardless of the treatment method used.

Indications to the procedure

  • Diagnosed corneal cone

  • Hidden corneal cone in candidates for laser vision correction

  • Corneal ectasias, such as translucent marginal degeneration.

  • Corneal infections resistant to drug treatment

Cross-linking treatment methods

The CXL procedure is preceded by a qualifying examination, at which the eye surgeon checks all the necessary parameters of the cornea of the eye and selects the appropriate method. At our Center, we use two methods of cross-linking procedures, depending on the severity of the disease. These are: such as:

Epi-Off – procedure with removal (abrasion) of the epithelium

Course of the procedure: The corneal epithelium is removed, which promotes greater absorption of both riboflavin and UV rays. This contributes to more effective therapy. Indicated for advanced stages of the disease.

Postoperative complaints: Patients may experience pain and discomfort, as well as temporary photophobia. All of these symptoms resolve within 3-4 days.

Epi-On – procedure without epithelial removal (transepithelial)

Course of action: after the administration of anesthesia, the eye is spotted with riboflavin solution and then exposed to a special UV lamp. Personalized corneal crosslinking procedure – Custom Fast (MEGARIDE) used by our surgeons allows the entire procedure to be carried out quickly and safely.

Postoperative complaints: Patients experience no pain, only mild discomfort in the form of eye redness, a foreign body sensation in the eye or temporary photophobia. This lasts for a maximum of 24 hours after the procedure.

Contraindications to the procedure

  • Active inflammation of the body and eye infections

  • Untreated or uncontrolled chronic diseases
    (e.g., diabetes, RA)

  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do you have a question? We’d be happy to answer it!