Epithelium-on Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking with Hypotonic Riboflavin Solution in Progressive Keratoconus.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Epithelium-off cross-linking (epi-off CXL) has long been established as the gold standard treatment for progressive keratoconus. Several protocols for epithelium-on (epi-on) CXL have been proposed to help reduce post-operative pain and facilitate visual recovery, but there is no epi-on treatment approach that is currently approved in the United States. The hydrophilic and macromolecular characteristics of conventional epi-off riboflavin formulations may create clinical challenges for absorption through an intact epithelium. This study investigates the clinical efficacy of a dextran-free hypotonic riboflavin ophthalmic solution (Photrexa, Glaukos, Burlington, MA, USA), approved for epi-off CXL, in a novel epi-on CXL protocol.

Methods

Twenty-five eyes of 17 patien

SUBMITTER: Beckman KA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8273905 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature