Keratoconus is a degenerative eye disorder that affects the shape of the cornea, making it thinner and more conical in shape.

This results in an abnormal curvature of the cornea, causing vision distortion and making it difficult for patients to see clearly. For many years, the only treatment for keratoconus was a corneal transplant. However, a new revolutionary treatment has been unveiled that is changing the lives of keratoconus patients.

What is Keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a condition that affects the cornea, the clear outer covering of the eye. The cornea is responsible for focusing light onto the retina, the part of the eye responsible for vision.

Keratoconus occurs when the cornea becomes thin and weak, causing it to bulge and become more conical in shape. This results in blurry and distorted vision, making it difficult for patients to perform daily activities such as driving and reading.

The Traditional Treatment for Keratoconus

For many years, the only treatment for keratoconus was a corneal transplant, a surgical procedure where the damaged cornea is replaced with a healthy cornea from a donor.

While this procedure is effective, there are several risks and complications associated with it, including infection, rejection, and the need for long-term medication.

A New Revolutionary Treatment

A new treatment for keratoconus has been developed that is changing the lives of patients. The treatment is called corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL), and it involves using a combination of light and special eye drops to strengthen the cornea.

The procedure is minimally invasive and is performed under local anesthesia.

How does CXL work?

CXL works by using a combination of riboflavin eye drops and ultraviolet light to strengthen the cornea. First, the eye drops are applied to the surface of the eye.

The riboflavin eye drops help to increase the cross-links between the collagen fibers in the cornea, making it stronger. Next, a special UV light is shone on the eye for about 10-15 minutes, activating the riboflavin in the eye drops and causing the collagen fibers to bond together. This process strengthens the cornea and helps to reduce the progression of keratoconus.

Benefits of CXL

CXL has many benefits for patients with keratoconus. The procedure is minimally invasive and is performed on an outpatient basis. It takes about an hour to perform, and most patients are able to return to normal activities the next day.

In addition, the procedure has a high success rate and can help to stabilize or even improve vision in patients with keratoconus.

Who is a Candidate for CXL?

CXL is typically recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with keratoconus and whose condition is progressing. Patients who have thin corneas or a history of corneal surgery may not be candidates for CXL.

Your eye doctor can help you determine if CXL is right for you.

Risks and Side Effects of CXL

CXL is a safe and effective procedure, but like any medical procedure, there are risks and potential side effects. Some patients may experience discomfort or temporary vision loss after the procedure.

In rare cases, infection or corneal scarring may occur. Your eye doctor will discuss the risks and side effects of CXL with you before the procedure.

Conclusion

CXL is a revolutionary new treatment for keratoconus that is changing the lives of patients. The procedure is minimally invasive and has a high success rate.

It can help to stabilize or even improve vision in patients with keratoconus and can reduce the need for a corneal transplant. If you have been diagnosed with keratoconus, talk to your eye doctor about whether CXL is right for you.