A Review of Keratoconus Cross-Linking Treatment Methods

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Corneal Science

Background:

• Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) is a photochemical treatment using riboflavin and UV-A light.
• It enhances corneal biomechanical stability by creating stromal fiber cross-links.
• CXL effectively halts the progression of corneal ectasia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current modifications of corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL).
• To synthesize findings on the effectiveness and development of CXL for corneal ectasia.
• To focus on long-term follow-up data from 1998 to 2023.

Main Methods:

• Review of publications from 1998 to 2023 on CXL modifications.
• Synthesis of data on effectiveness, efficiency, and safety of various CXL protocols.
• Analysis of long-term follow-up results for corneal ectasia treatment.

Main Results:

• Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) is a well-established treatment for corneal ectasia.
• Innovations include transepithelial CXL (epi-on CXL), accelerated CXL (ACXL), and combined methods.
• These modifications aim to improve clinical outcomes and patient safety.

Conclusions:

• Corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) remains the dominant surgical method for treating corneal ectasia.
• Ongoing innovations continue to refine CXL protocols for enhanced efficacy and safety.
• Long-term data support the sustained effectiveness of CXL in managing progressive corneal ectasia.