Keratoconus
KERATOCONUS TREATMENTS:
- Corneal Cross linking:
Cross linking aims to stop corneal weakening and thinning due to keratoconus.
Treatment involves applying (Vitamin B2) drops to the eye, then exposing the eye to (ultraviolet light) over a 30-minute period.
Cross linking has been shown to increase corneal rigidity, and stop the progression of keratoconus in over 90% of those who undergo the operation.
- Hard Contact Lenses
These lenses sit very tightly on the cornea and change its irregular shape to a more uniform one. This tends to improve vision.
The drawbacks include less patient’s comfort, so he/she may require frequent visits to the optometrist to make it more comfortable.
- Corneal Rings
The procedure is performed under local anesthesia. During the operation, channels are made within the cornea and rings are inserted into them to make the corneal shape more regular.
This procedure is designed to let you get better-quality sight, although you may still need to use glasses and/or contact lenses. However, when using them, you will be more comfortable than before this surgery.
- Laser Vision Correction (PRK) with Corneal Cross Linking
Laser vision correction has traditionally not been available for those with keratoconus. When the cornea is precisely imaged by what is called (corneal topography), it is possible to perform laser vision correction (PRK) to improve the shape of the cornea and, in turn, improve vision. The laser vision correction procedure should be combined corneal cross linking to reduce the risk of progression of keratoconus.
- Corneal Grafting
In advanced cases, corneal grafting may be needed. This procedure replaces the patient’s diseased cornea with a healthy one. Patient may still need to wear glasses or contact lenses to enhance his/her sight, but with a better comfort. Corneal grafting is often followed by laser vision correction to improve vision even more.
