Crosslinking UV™ – X epi-on

Abstract

Keratoconus is a bilateral noninflammatory conelike ectasia of the cornea. Corneal Collagen Cross linking with riboflavin (UVTM–X) strengthens the intrinsic biomechanical property of the cornea using ultraviolet A (UVA) and riboflavin 0.1%. Aim: To evaluate the clinical usefulness of crosslinking – UVTM for stopping the progression of keratoconus. Method: Clinical prospective study, that included 82 eyes with moderate or advanced progressive keratoconus (K: 48 – 72 D). Two techniques of treatment were performed: in 42 eyes - UVTM-X epi-off and in 40 eyes - UVTM-X epi-on. The first is accomplished with central corneal abrasion, riboflavin drops and exposure to UVA (365 nm, 3 mW/cm2) at 5 cm distance for 30 minutes. UVTM–X epi-on is performed without desepitalization of the cornea with balanced solution of riboflavin instilled for 20 minutes and UVA exposure (365 nm, 9mW/cm2) for 10 minutes. Postoperative examinations were carried over the course of 1 day, 1 week, 1, 3 and 6 months, including visual acuity, biomicroscopy, corneal topography, pachymetry, refractometry, keratometry. Result: In all treated eyes, the progression of keratoconus was stopped. In 42 eyes (51,2 %) visual acuity was improved. The priority of UVTM–X epi-on tehnique results in absence of pain syndrome and fast postoperative recovery. Conclusion: Crosslinking – UV™-X is a way for stopping the progression of keratoconus.