Cross-linking procedure — methods

Cross-linking is a surgical procedure designed to treat a cornea that is weakened or warped, e.g. due to keratoconus, ectasia or degeneration.

During the procedure, after prior anaesthesia of the eye (locally applied anaesthetic eye drops) and preparation of the cornea, an ophthalmic surgeon proceeds to instillation of riboflavin (vitamin B) solution for a certain period of time.

Next, a special lamp is used which emits UV radiation. Light activates the action of riboflavin, which leads to the creation of new bonds between collagen fibres in the cornea. The newly formed “crossed” fibres strengthen the cornea, which was weakened before the procedure.

Cross-linking methods used in our Centre

The procedure is preceded by a qualifying examination during which an ophthalmic surgeon checks all the necessary corneal parameters and chooses the most suitable treatment method. Our Centre offers two cross-linking methods and the choice between the two depends on the condition of the cornea.

• Epi-On method – treatment without removing the epithelium (transepithelial).
  
  A personalised procedure of fast cross-linking of the cornea – Custom Fast (MEGARIDE) – used by our surgeons, allows to conduct the whole treatment quickly and safely.
  
  After the procedure, patients do not experience any pain, but only a feeling of slight discomfort in the form of eye redness, foreign body sensation in the eye or temporary photophobia, which usually wears off within 24 hours.
• Epi-Off method – treatment involving the removal (abrasion) of the epithelium.
  
  In this case the epithelium of the cornea is removed, which promotes greater absorption of both riboflavin and UV radiation and hence enhances the treatment results. This method is recommended in the case of an advanced stage of the disease.
  
  The convalescence period after the Epi-Off procedure is a bit longer than the one following the Epi-On treatment. Patients may experience pain and discomfort, as well as temporary photophobia. All the symptoms wear off within 3-4 days.
  
  The Epi-Off cross-linking method can be successfully combined with laser vision correction (cross-linking PLUS).

Regardless of the chosen method, following the cross-linking procedure it is recommended that the patients apply medications onto the operated eye/eyes. The eye drops and the first follow-up appointment (scheduled a week after the treatment) are both included in the price of the procedure.

Do you experience a constant vision deterioration despite increasing the power of lenses in your glasses? Or maybe you have already been diagnosed with keratoconus? Cross-linking is an effective way of treating diseases and degenerations of the cornea. It also offers a chance for laser vision correction in patients with diagnosed keratoconus. To make an appointment for an examination qualifying for the cross-linking procedure, call us or send us an email: 

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