KERATOCONUS

Treating keratoconus is anything but easy. The available techniques achieve either its stabilization, ie the halting of its progressive development, or the partial restoration of the patient’s vision.

Cross-Linking

In recent years, keratoconus can be stabilized with the Cross-Linking treatment method. Cross-Linking uses photosensitizers such as riboflavin in combination with UV-A UV radiation. It is a modern therapeutic method based on the molecular cross-linking of corneal collagen fibers, in order to stop the development of keratoconus.

The classic procedure takes about an hour. In the first 30 minutes the photosensitive agent (riboflavin) is instilled and then the UV-A (Dresden Protocol) is applied.

The “Diathlasis” Ophthalmological Institute for the treatment of keratoconus uses the most advanced machine (AVEDRO Accelerated Cross-linking KXL) that completes the treatment in 3 minutes instead of 30 that the older method needs.

AVEDRO is the most advanced system for corneal collagen cross-linking (Cross-Linking) and has reduced treatment time. This process is achieved by using higher power efficiency, by increasing the UV-A energy and reducing the exposure time to the shortest possible time, just 3 minutes.

It is done in our space easily and painlessly. With this treatment the cornea becomes less elastic resulting in the stabilization of the keratoconus and in some cases the improvement of the patient’s vision.

With this method, we can avoid the evolutionary process of these pathological conditions which, if left untreated, may lead to the need for corneal transplantation.

Intralayer rings (KERARINGS)

At the Ophthalmological Institute “diathlasis” the insertion of Intralayer Rings (Kerarings) is performed using the Femtosecond Laser.

These are tiny inserts that are placed in the stratum corneum of the cornea, changing its shape. In this way they oppose the pathological deformity of the cornea resulting in improved vision.

The operation of the insertion of the intra-layer rings is done under local anesthesia, with the use of the Femtosecond Laser and it takes about 5 minutes. Their placement normalizes the surface of the cornea, improving vision corrected with glasses. The effects on vision are noticeable in less than 24 hours after surgery.

Department of Keratoconus Contact Lens Application

The “Diathlasis” Ophthalmological Institute has a special Department for the Application of Keratoconus Contact Lenses in order to improve the patient’s vision.
Patients with keratoconus who have either undergone stabilization treatment or not, can use special keratoconus contact lenses. These lenses improve the patient’s vision but do not ensure keratoconus stabilization.

PRK-CXL

As the thickness of the cornea allows tissue ablation to normalize, Cross-Linking can be combined with PRK phototherapy keratectomy to improve the patient’s vision with his glasses.