Collagen cross-linking in early keratoconus with riboflavin in a femtosecond laser-created pocket: initial findings and eight years monitoring

Session Details

Session Title: Cornea & Miscellaneous
Session Date/Time: Friday 15/02/2019 | 10:30-12:30
Paper Time: 10:42
Venue: Room MC3

First Author: A. Adamopoulou GREECE
Co Author(s): A. Rasoglou  M. Balidis  S. Koronis  E. Siskou        

Abstract Details

Purpose:

To evaluate the effect of femtosecond-assisted intrastromal corneal cross-linking to stabilize early and moderate keratoconus over an 8 year period.

Setting:

Ophthalmica Institute, Thessaloniki, Greece.

Methods:

Twelve eyes of 9 consecutive patients (6 male), with early to moderate keratoconus (K > 53.00 D and/or inferior steepening > 1.00 D in the superior half of the cornea, minimum corneal thickness > 420 am, age < 35 years) included in the study. The patients continued to be monitored post operatively for a period of 8 years.

Results:

Stabilization of keratoconus during the 1-year follow-up period, with Kmax remaining unchanged and Kmax-Kmin difference reduced after the first postoperative month. There was statistically significant difference in the preoperative and 1-year postoperative value of eccentricity (Topolyser, Oculus Instruments), thinnest corneal point and irregularity in 3mm (Orbscan imaging). Corrected distant visual acuity, although decreased in one month, increased in 3 and 12 months postoperatively. Continuing the monitoring of the patients in a period of 8 years post-operative we can observe the stabilization of keratoconus and the achievement of stable and improved corrected distant visual acuity.

Conclusions:

This surgical approach leads to faster healing time and visual rehabilitation with significant pain reduction. A shorter soak period and possibly more effective diffusion of riboflavin (direct injection at depth via the intrastromal pocket), provide greater shielding near the endothelium.

Financial Disclosure:

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