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- Ahmedabad, Gujarat
Collagen cross-linking is an advanced treatment for keratoconus that strengthens the cornea. The procedure uses a photosensitizing agent, riboflavin (Vitamin B2), combined with controlled ultraviolet A (UVA 365 nm) light exposure. The UVA light promotes increased cross-linking between collagen fibers within the cornea. Clinical studies, including the Dresden study, have shown that cross-linking can arrest the progression of keratoconus over 3–5 years in treated eyes.
The procedure is performed under topical anesthesia. The corneal surface (epithelium) is partially scratched, followed by riboflavin eye drops for 30 minutes. The eye is then exposed to UVA light for 30 minutes. After treatment, an antibiotic ointment is applied, and an eye patch is worn overnight until the surface heals. Oral analgesics may be taken for the first 1–2 days for comfort.
The UVA light used in this procedure is safe in measured doses. The light-emitting diodes in the C3R device are carefully calibrated to ensure safety, and the wavelength is not harmful to the eye.
Patients are examined shortly after the procedure to remove the contact lens and start post-operative eye drops. Follow-ups are recommended at 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year, with annual check-ups thereafter.
Contact lenses can usually be worn after one month. Lens prescriptions may need adjustment if the cornea changes shape.
Cross-linking strengthens the cornea immediately after UVA exposure, although the process continues over several days. Changes in corneal shape may take longer, and flattening does not occur in all cases. The main goal is to halt the progression of keratoconus.
Unlike other treatments that focus only on vision correction, collagen cross-linking addresses the underlying cause by strengthening the cornea. This can halt disease progression and may partially reverse corneal steepening that has already occurred, providing long-term stabilization for patients with keratoconus.
