Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory degenerative corneal disease with a pubertal onset that is progressive. In 20% of cases, patients suffering from keratoconus could undergo a corneal transplant.
In recent years a method of “reinforcement” of the structure of the cornea affected by keratoconus has been developed on the basis of an “intertwining and increase of bonds” between the fibers of the corneal collagen.
The method is based on the RIBOFLAVIN-UVA-INDUCED CROSS-LINKING, a technique aimed at treating keratoconus evolutionary in a conservative manner. This method consists of the photopolymerization of the cornea fibers with the purpose of increasing the rigidity and resistance of the characteristic bulging of keratoconus.
The method is technically simple and minimally invasive: after having instilled a topical anesthetic in eye drops the corneal epithelium is removed (cell veil covering the cornea which spontaneously reforms every week); it goes on to install a base B2 solution on the corneal surface for 10 minutes and radiates the ocular surface with a light wavelength which reacts with vitamin B2. This reaction determines the reinforcement of corneal collagen fibers.
The purpose of the treatment is therefore to obtain a hardening of the cornea through simple processes, localized biochemicals and to block the progression of keratoconus over time.
The technique is useful for all people suffering from keratoconus, avoiding or delaying corneal transplantation.
