The correction of vision by means of eyeglasses and soft contact lenses do not ensure sufficient visual acuity, which causes problems at home, makes driving difficult, as well as work in professions that require precision impossible.
The initial phases of keratoconus can be corrected by means of special gas permeable contact lenses for the therapy of keratoconus.
Previously progressing keratoconus resulted in corneal transplantation, or in delayed cases – rupture or perforation of the cornea. Nowadays the progression of keratoconus can be stopped surgically – by means of corneal cross-linking method (or CCL), which aims to increase the mechanical durability of the cornea. Cross linking method is offered by Dr. Lūkins Eye Clinic as well.
During the procedure the corneal epithelium is removed first (Trans-Epithelial Surface Treatment), followed by exposure of the cornea to UV-A ray impact for approximately 30 minutes. The therapeutic contact lens is applied at the end of the procedure. Anti-inflammatory eye drops are used in the post-surgical period.
This method can be used if the thickness of cornea is not less than 400 micrometres, since otherwise the risk of damage to the endothelium of the cornea exists. The sooner the therapy by means of cross linking method is commenced, the better therapy results are. The earliest age at which the procedure may be performed in 18, but exceptions to this rule is possible in the event of rapidly progressing keratoconus.
