Posters

Individualized topgraphy-guided cross-linking for keratoconus: comparison of epi-on/high oxygen to epi-off/room air protocols

Poster Details

First Author: A.Behndig SWEDEN

Co Author(s):    S. Näslund                    

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To compare the efficacy, safety and healing phase of two different Customized Remodeled Vision (CuRV) crosslinking protocols for keratoconus.

Setting:

Department of Clinical Sciences/Ophthalmology, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden

Methods:

In an ongoing single-masked, intra-individually comparing study 25 patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus have so far been treated with bilateral CuRV; one eye with a high-oxygen epi-on protocol, the other eye with an epi-off protocol in room air, which was randomized. Uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected visual acuities (CDVA), low-contrast visual acuities, refractive spherical equivalents (SE), endothelial cell count (ECC) and adverse events were analyzed pre- and post treatment. The discomfort symptoms during the healing phase for each eye was registered during the first week post treatment.

Results:

In both protocols, improved UDVA was seen at 1, 3 and 6 months and improved BSCVA att 3 and 6 months. Improved low-contrast visual acuities at 3 and 6 months was seen with the high-oxygen epi-on protocol (p<0.05), but not with the epi-off protocol. The high-oxygen epi-on treated eyes had significantly less pain and light sensitivity during the first week post treatment. The ECC and CDVA remained unchanged. No adverse events occurred.

Conclusions:

Our preliminary results indicate that the novel high-oxygen epi-on treatment protocol appears to be a promising alternative to epi-off CuRV. Finalizing the study, including the planned 12-months follow-up will show if this impression is confirmed.

Financial Disclosure:

None