Corneal Cross Linking

What types of conditions will benefit from Corneal Cross Linking ?

Corneal Cross Linking is a relatively new treatment offered to patients with mild forms of Keratoconus. Keratoconus is a condition in which there are weakened bonds in the collagen fibres of the cornea. This causes distortion in the shape of a cone usually in the lower part of the cornea. Corneal Cross Linking is designed to strengthen and tighten these collagen bonds, much like a wide belt supports a sagging stomach.

What does the Corneal Cross Linking procedure involve?

Corneal Cross Linking itself takes 1 ½ – 2 hours at our centre. There are no injections and it is performed simply using local anaesthetic eye drops. The surface of the eye is prepared by the doctor after surrounding the eye with a sterile drape. Next,  Riboflavin eye drops are put in the eye every few minutes until the collagen has absorbed these. This takes about half an hour. An ultraviolet light, set at the correct frequency is then beamed onto the cornea and the strengthening process starts.

The treated eye is glare sensitive, red, sore and gritty for 2-3 days. Prescription pain relief is provided and cold ice packs help with comfort. Normally, it is advisable to have at least a week off work.

What equipment is used?

We use the most advanced technology for custom corneal Laser treatments (Schwind topographic analyser).

What are the benefits

Corneal Cross linking is not designed to improve vision but rather is effective in slowing down the progression of keratoconus and helping some patients avoid corneal graft surgery.