Eye Group Offers Corneal Cross Linking For
Treatment of Keratoconus

Keratoconus is an eye condition that causes thinning of the cornea that produces a bulging shape. As a result of this irregular shaping, patients may experience vision problems and sensitivity to light that affects their quality of life. Corneal cross linking is a treatment that is designed to prevent worsening of the corneal bulging. At Eye Group in Madison, MS, we offer the cross linking treatment for our keratoconus patients.

Understanding Keratoconus

Keratoconus occurs when the cornea, the transparent covering over the eye, begins to thin. The front part of the cornea develops a cone shape, which causes significant distortion during everyday vision. Genetic factors and eye injury are the known causes for the condition. Symptoms include blurring of vision, sensitivity to light and glare, frequent changes in eye prescription, eye discomfort and difficulty with night vision.

Mild cases of keratoconus can be helped with soft or hard contact lenses, but the condition can often worsen, making fitting the lenses more difficult and uncomfortable for the patient. Corneal cross linking can help to stabilize the cornea, to help avoid or put off corneal transplant procedures.

How Corneal Cross Linking Can Help

Cross linking is a treatment designed to strengthen the supporting structures of the cornea. Although it cannot repair the bulging that has already occurred, it can prevent further worsening of the condition. Cross linking involves using medication and light therapy to strengthen tissues of the eye. The epithelium may be removed to allow access to the eye surface. Healing occurs over a period of several weeks, during which the patient may experience vision changes and then, gradual improvement.

Benefits of Corneal Cross Linking

Corneal cross linking can help to improve vision by reshaping the cornea, which is critical for focusing. The cross linking procedure can also last for many years. The procedure can also delay the need for a corneal transplant, which is a more involved surgery. For these reasons, cross linking provides a good option for patients with worsening keratoconus.