Keratoconus Management

Keratoconus is a condition where the front of the eye protrudes outward like a cone, instead of being smooth and round. 

This cone-shaped appearance of the cornea interferes with the focus of light entering the eye, leading to short-sightedness that may require correction. 

While the exact cause of Keratoconus is not fully understood, it is believed to have a genetic component and is more prevalent in individuals with asthma, eczema, and those who frequently rub their eyes.

 In some cases, cross linking and corneal transplant procedures may be considered as treatment options.

Keratoconus is typically diagnosed in young individuals during puberty, in their late teens, or early twenties. 

This condition is more prevalent among non-Caucasians, affecting approximately 1 in 450 people. To determine if you have Keratoconus, an ocular healthcare professional will examine your eyes using a slit lamp and perform topography scans. 

In some cases, treatments such as corneal transplant or cross linking may be considered to manage the condition.

There is currently no cure for Keratoconus, so patients typically require glasses to see well. 

However, many will eventually need special contact lenses specifically designed to fit the unique shape of the cornea, which can enhance visual quality. 

In more advanced cases of Keratoconus, a corneal transplant may be necessary, often referred to as cross linking.

Progressing Keratoconus, characterized by its conical shape, causes the cornea to thin over time. One effective treatment is cross linking, which utilizes ultraviolet light and vitamin B2 eye drops to stiffen the cornea.

 This process helps the fibers within the cornea to cross link more tightly, effectively reducing the progression of Keratoconus. Remarkably, this treatment works for 90% of patients after just the first outpatient procedure.

 It is especially recommended for individuals who display signs of a high risk of worsening Keratoconus, potentially delaying the need for more invasive options like a corneal transplant.

Patients with Keratoconus will still need to wear spectacles or contact lenses after undergoing cross linking. 

It's normal for eyes to feel sore after the treatment, but this discomfort can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain killers. Patients should allow at least one week off from work or studies to manage the necessary medications. 

Following a corneal transplant or cross linking, prescribed eye drops and bandage contact lenses will need to be used regularly to ensure a prompt recovery.

Benefits: 

Typically prevents the progression of Keratoconus. 

Risks: 

Cross linking is a very safe procedure; however, all treatments require time for healing, and complications can arise. 

There is a 1 in 30 chance of experiencing worse vision after undergoing cross linking. 

Additionally, 20% of patients with Keratoconus who do not pursue cross linking may ultimately require a corneal transplant.

Preservative-free drops will be administered four times a day, spaced five minutes apart, for a duration of 1-2 weeks post corneal transplant. Bandage contact lenses will be provided to safeguard the cornea during its recovery, along with numbing eye drops to alleviate discomfort as healing progresses. 

A follow-up appointment will be scheduled in 2-3 weeks to review the healing process, particularly for those with keratoconus or undergoing cross-linking treatments.