This article is more than 5 years old. Information may no longer be current.
Epi-on CXL effective for advanced keratoconus, researchers say
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts
Researchers determined that epithelium-on corneal collagen crosslinking is a satisfactory treatment for patients with advanced keratoconus, according to a study in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Twenty-one eyes of 21 patients with bilateral progressive keratoconus were treated with tetracaine-enhanced epithelium-on CXL.
Researchers noted significant improvement in postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity at 12 months. Improvements were also reported in postoperative corrected distance visual acuity at 6 months and 12 months when compared to baseline.
The reduction in median maximum keratometry values was higher after CXL than in the untreated eyes, according to researchers.
Researchers attempted chemical disruption of the epithelial tight junctions with the use of tetracaine.
“It is possible that epithelium-on CXL allows faster visual recovery than standard epithelium-off CXL, which causes significant visual impairment and topographic worsening in the first few months after treatment,” the researchers wrote.
They also reported that sufficient topographic flattening and the risk for corneal haze or scar formation was minimized. – by Abigail Sutton
Disclosure: The researchers reported no relevant financial disclosures.
Click Here to Manage Email Alerts