Influence of corneal cross-linking on visual acuity and topometric indices in keratoconus

Aim of the study
To assess the impact of corneal cross-linking (CXL) in keratoconic eyes on uncorrected (UCVA) and best corrected (BCVA) distance visual acuity, selected corneal parameters measured with a Scheimpflug imaging system, intraocular pressure (IOP) and endothelial cell density (ECD).

Material and methods
71 eyes of 61 patients treated with CXL were included in the study. Each patient underwent optometric and ophthalmological examination with corneal tomography. Data from the qualifying visit and 1-year post-surgery examination were analyzed.

Results
Comparative analysis of the pre-operative and 1-year post-operative evaluation showed improvement in median UCVA of –0.1 (logMAR) and median BCVA of –0.06 (logMAR). Manifest spherical equivalent showed a median change of almost 0.4 D and the power of the manifest cylinder did not change. The regression in the anterior keratometry steep meridian was greater than in the flat meridian, –0.9 D and –0.6 D respectively. The median Kmax change value was –1.2 D. Topometric indices analysis showed improvement in corneal symmetry. We did not observe changes in IOP and ECD.

Conclusions
CXL is a safe procedure, improving visual acuity, both uncorrected and corrected, and normalizing corneal parameters.