In recent times, the field of eye care has experienced a remarkable surge in the number of diagnostic treatment methods available. This has made it possible for ophthalmologists to diagnose and treat ocular conditions with greater accuracy and efficacy.
Individuals living with keratoconus are enthusiastic about the prospect of Corneal Cross-linking as a potential means of preventing vision loss and enhancing their vision.
Vision Clinic Sydney offers this revolutionary procedure to its patients. To find out more about Collagen Cross-Linking in Sydney as a Keratoconus treatment, and if this can help you read this article where we explore this procedure in more detail.
Collagen Cross-Linking and Keratoconus
Collagen cross-linking (CXL) is a medical procedure used to treat progressive keratoconus. This degenerative eye condition causes a thinning and steepening of the cornea, leading to vision distortion and even blindness.
In CXL, a photosensitising solution is applied to the cornea and then activated using oxygen and ultraviolet light A (UVA) to create numerous new cross-links between collagen fibres, resulting in the strengthening and stiffening of the cornea. This helps to prevent further thinning, steepening, and vision distortion.
This helps to stabilise the cornea, preventing it from becoming further distorted in shape.
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking: Is this a cure for Keratoconus?
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) is a promising treatment that can slow the progression of Keratoconus and advanced Keratoconus, and even improve vision in some cases, but it is not a cure. The long-term effects of CXL are still being studied, but it has been found to be an effective treatment for stopping the progression of many types of Keratoconus.
Vision Clinic Sydney and advanced Collagen Cross Linking
At Vision Clinic Sydney, we offer Collagen Cross-Linking to patients suffering all forms of corneal ectasia. This includes conditions such as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration and post-LASIK Ectasia. We provide a comprehensive eye examination to determine the degree of the condition and the best course of treatment.
We perform minimally invasive collagen cross-linking. This is known as “Transepithelial Collagen Cross-Linking with Oxygen Enhancement”. We are at present the first and only clinic in NSW to offer this advanced procedure to keratoconus patients. In this procedure, the corneal epithelium is left intact. Specialised riboflavin drops are used, oxygen goggles fit to the patient’s face, and a pulsed UV light is applied to the cornea. This minimises postoperative risk and postoperative pain.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below you can find our most frequently asked questions:
What is the corneal cross-linking cost in Australia?
Corneal collagen cross-linking in Australia typically ranges from $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the severity of the condition and the type of treatment being performed.
What is the success rate of collagen cross-linking?
The success rate of collagen cross-linking is generally considered very high, with studies showing that it can reduce the progression of keratoconus in over 98% of patients.
How long does collagen cross-linking last?
Collagen cross-linking typically lasts for many years, but it can vary depending on the individual. It’s important to note that the effects of collagen cross-linking cannot be reversed.
Is collagen cross-linking a type of corneal transplantation surgery?
Collagen cross-linking is not a type of corneal transplant surgery. Collagen cross-linking is a surgical procedure used to strengthen the cornea and slow the progression of keratoconus, a condition that causes the cornea to become weak and thin. Corneal transplantation is a surgical procedure that involves replacing a diseased or damaged cornea with a healthy one from a donor.
Do soft contact lenses help with keratoconus?
Soft contact lenses are of minimal help in patients with corneal ectasia, such as keratoconus, pellucid marginal degeneration and post-LASIK ectasia.
Rigid contact lenses can help to correct vision in people with keratoconus by masking the irregularities in the cornea caused by the condition. They can also reduce symptoms such as glare and halos around lights.
This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.
