Transepithelial Corneal CXL for Keratoconus: Results of Our First 30 Cases
Purpose
To evaluate the safety, efficacy and comfort of accelerated transepithelial collagen crosslinking in a multi-age keratoconus population.
Methods
Retrospective case study. 30 eyes were treated with the Avedro system, varying in disease severity. Ages ranged from 10-40. Accelerated transpithelial CXL was performed. Chayet LASIK sponge and BSS irrigation was added as well to increase patient comfort. Quantatative visual, topographic, endothelilal and pain measures were taken.
Results
Mean age, mean keratometry change, mean corrected and uncorrected visual acuities, and mean pain scores will all be reported.
Conclusion
Transepithelial cornea collagen crosslinking (TE-KXL) for keratoconus is a safer and more comfortable procedure than epithelium-off crosslinking, without sacrificing the procedures efficacy. Additional techniques can also be added to the protocol to decrease patient discomfort, which may enhance patient experience with epithelium-off procedures as well.