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Published on: November 12, 2015
Postoperative Pain and Functional Limitations After Corneal Cross-Linking for Keratoconus: A Patient-Reported Outcome
Ruta Jaruseviciene1, Gintare Kirkickaite1, Saulius Galgauskas1
1Institute of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Vilnius University, M. K. Ciurlionio Str. 21, LT-03101 Vilnius, Lithuania.
Background:
Keratoconus is a progressive corneal condition that leads to visual impairment and is primarily managed with corneal cross-linking (CXL), a procedure designed to halt its progression. However, while the clinical outcomes of CXL are well-documented, its impact on patient well-being, including postoperative pain and recovery, remains underexplored. This study aimed to evaluate postoperative pain, functional limitations, visual recovery, and patient-reported outcomes following corneal cross-linking (CXL) for keratoconus.
Methods:
A structured survey was conducted among 31 patients who underwent CXL for keratoconus. The survey assessed postoperative pain using a Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) and collected information on visual recovery, functional limitations, and the socioeconomic effects of the procedure. Clinical data, including best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) and keratometry, were also recorded before and after CXL to evaluate the procedure's efficacy.
Results:
The study found that postoperative pain was moderate, with a mean pain score of 6.06 ± 1.82, typically lasting 1-3 days. Nearly 54.8% of patients reported significant disruption to daily activities, including missing work or studies, and 77.4% experienced some degree of functional limitation. A statistically significant correlation was observed between postoperative pain intensity and quality-of-life impairment (Spearman's ρ = 0.503, p = 0.004). Despite these challenges, 93.5% of participants reported improvement in vision, with most recovering within a week. Objective clinical data supported the effectiveness of the procedure.
Conclusions:
Corneal cross-linking is associated with favorable clinical outcomes; however, the early postoperative period is characterized by moderate pain and functional limitations, highlighting the importance of patient-centered care.
