[Treatment of Keratoconus by Accelerated Cross-linking]

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Surgery
• Vision Science

Background:

• Keratoconus is a progressive eye condition causing corneal thinning and bulging.
• Current treatments aim to halt progression and improve vision.
• Accelerated Corneal Collagen cross-linking (ACXL) is a potential treatment option.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Accelerated Corneal Collagen cross-linking (ACXL) in treating progressive keratoconus.
• To assess changes in visual acuity, corneal curvature, astigmatism, and thickness post-ACXL.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of keratoconus patients underwent ACXL.
• Ophthalmological parameters including visual acuity, keratometry, astigmatism, and pachymetry were measured preoperatively and up to 3 years postoperatively.
• Statistical analysis was performed using the non-parametric Wilcoxon test.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant changes were observed in K2 values (corneal curvature).
• Significant changes in corneal thickness were also noted postoperatively.
• Long-term efficacy of ACXL in stabilizing keratoconus was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Accelerated Corneal Collagen cross-linking (ACXL) is an effective treatment for progressive keratoconus.
• ACXL leads to significant positive changes in corneal biomechanics and thickness.
• This treatment offers a promising approach for managing keratoconus progression.