Corneal crosslinking has been hailed as one of the most promising treatments for keratoconus, a disease characterized by the gradual thinning and bulging of the cornea. During the procedure, Dr. Ernest Kornmehl applies riboflavin drops to the eyes and exposes them to ultraviolet light. This combination strengthens and stiffens the corneal fibers inside the cornea to halt the progression of keratoconus.
Although the emerging treatment offers incredible benefits for cases of keratoconus, it is essential to understand exactly what it can and cannot accomplish. If you have been diagnosed with keratoconus and are interested in undergoing corneal crosslinking, Dr. Kornmehl will consult with you to establish proper expectations of treatment.
Innovative Treatment Halts the Progression of Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a challenging disease to diagnose, and until recently, it was difficult to treat. There is currently no cure. Doctors are not absolutely sure what causes keratoconus, although genetic factors are suspected. According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, excessive-eye-rubbing connective tissue disorders and eye allergies may also play a role in the development of keratoconus.
As the cornea progressively thins and bulges, it starts to impair visual acuity. Traditionally, doctors have prescribed glasses or specialty contact lenses for vision correction. The downside of these visual aids is that they do not stop keratoconus from getting worse. In rare cases, the disease becomes so severe that transplant surgery is required.
Corneal crosslinking is not intended to improve vision (although individual results vary, and some studies suggest vision may get better as eyes recover). The procedure helps preserve the vision you already have by slowing or stopping the progression of keratoconus.
You will still need to wear glasses or specialty contact lenses after corneal crosslinking for vision correction. But your corneas will not continue to bulge and change shape. You will not experience unpredictable fluctuations in your glasses prescription due to the effects of keratoconus. And by improving corneal stability and preventing keratoconus from worsening, corneal crosslinking reduces or eliminates the need for serious surgeries like corneal transplant.
A New Standard of Care for Keratoconus
Dr. Kornmehl’s goal is to offer patients with keratoconus the safest and most effective solutions. He strongly believes corneal crosslinking offers promise to many people with keratoconus, and it can save them from needing to undergo invasive surgery in the future.
To learn more about corneal crosslinking for keratoconus and whether it is right for your unique case, please contact our practice and request a consultation with Dr. Kornmehl today.