Corneal cross linking (CXL) is a highly effective treatment to halt the progression of keratoconus. Evidence from randomised clinical trials one year after CXL showed progression was halted in more than 90% of treated eyes. Longer term studies monitoring progression over 5 years showed similar results.
In general, if CXL is performed at a young age e.g. 16, then there is a good chance a second treatment will be required. However, if the first treatment is performed at 26, then it is likely that only one treatment will be required. This is because keratoconus generally stabilises at an older age.
As a rule of thumb, if keratoconus is progressing, you should have corneal cross linking. We recommend CXL to all young patients with keratoconus.
Corneal cross linking (CXL) is a highly effective treatment to halt the progression of keratoconus. Evidence from randomised clinical trials one year after CXL showed progression was halted in more than 90% of treated eyes. Longer term studies monitoring progression over 5 years showed similar results.
In general, if CXL is performed at a young age e.g. 16, then there is a good chance a second treatment will be required. However, if the first treatment is performed at 26, then it is likely that only one treatment will be required. This is because keratoconus generally stabilises at an older age.
As a rule of thumb, if keratoconus is progressing, you should have corneal cross linking. We recommend CXL to all young patients with keratoconus.
Stopping Progression of Keratoconus
Improving Vision in Keratoconus
If you are intolerant to contact lenses or your vision is poor in spectacles, you may be able to consider Intra Corneal Ring Segments (ICRS).
This surgery aims to re-centre the cone in order to improve vision. ICRS surgery is not suitable for everyone. During your consultation we will be able to advise you on whether ICRS surgery is suitable for you.
Scarring of the cornea can result from the natural progression of keratoconus or when contact lenses rub excessively on the cornea.
Scarring causes scattering of light and prevents light from being focussed on the retina. When scarring occupies a large area within the pupil, the only way to improve vision is to replace the scarred cornea with a donor cornea – a procedure called a corneal transplant.
If the cornea has enough thickness and the scarring is within the upper layer of the cornea, a partial thickness graft is possible. Otherwise a full thickness transplant will be performed.
