CORNEAL CROSS-LINKING (CXL)

WHAT IS KERATOCONUS?

Keratoconus is a condition of the eye which causes the cornea (the clear window at the front of the eye) to stretch and change shape. The cornea is normally shaped like the front of a soccer ball, but this stretching gradually causes it to become shaped like a cone, causing blurry vision. In the early stages of keratoconus, glasses may still allow you to have clear vision. As keratoconus progresses you may require soft or hard contact lenses, and at the late stage of the disease a corneal transplant is often required. If the cornea is found to be changing shape over time then corneal cross-linking (CXL) is advised.

WHAT IS CORNEAL CROSS-LINKING (CXL)?

CXL is a safe and effective treatment to prevent keratoconus from getting worse. The earlier the disease is found and treated the less likely it is to affect your vision. CXL involves soaking the eye with riboflavin (vitamin B2) and exposing the cornea to a low dose of ultraviolet light to strengthen and stiffen the cornea. Approximately half of patients will have the added benefit of a slight improvement in their vision as the corneal shape improves.

To discuss keratoconus treatment options, please book an appointment with Dr Albie Covello.

Glaucoma: FAQ

Glaucoma: List