UK Keratoconus Self-Help and Support Association

While crosslinking is done, is the epithelium completely removed?

Hi, yes, it is in the "epi off" version of the treatment.

An alternative version, usually referred to as "epi on" can also be performed, but more research is needed to determine if this is as safe and effective as the "epi off" version.

Best wishes

Chris

There is also 'Fenton pocket' cxl which puts a small hole in the epi layer to address the issue of the riboflavin getting where it needs to be but with a much quicker healing time due to the small incision rather than complete removal. Also means limiting the infection possibilities

I'm having that doke on 3rd of December....

Apologies. Femto pocket cxl is the title. Proxy iPhone!!!

A question!

If there is a scratch on the epithelium in front of the pupil and it heals, would it leave behind a scar creating vision problems.

If yes, then having CLX could remove the symptoms since epithelium is taken out completely?

Please advice.

Awaiting replies please...

Knock knock. Anyone!

khatrimaf

Sorry I was away and didn't spot your question.

Most of the time, staining on the epithelium heals very quickly leaving no scar. Sometimes, however, abrasions are so deep that they leave scarring or even develop into corneal ulcers. An optometrist would be able to advise; they have the advantage of looking at your eye.

In Scotland optometrists now operate what used to be known as 'eye casualty'; they can get a client very quickly into a consultation with an ophthalmologist if that is indicated. Otherwise they will give clear professional advice on what to do next.

Every good wish.

Andrew

Thanks and no worries!

It means if the abrasion on the epithelium itself is deep it can cause permanent scarring although abrasion is not deep enough that it damages bowman's layer.

Actually I have mild KC in the eye in which trauma happened. Accidently my finger nail touched the cornea and since then my eyesight is fluctuating, there is streaking and ghosting which is not correctable with spectacles.

When the doctors see my eye they see no scratch but feel keratoconus has advanced due to trauma.

My question is that if I have epi off cxl done then epithelium would be removed so would it remove my symptoms?

Thanks.

Hi Asif,
I think you've misunderstood what CXL does. Although the epithelium is usually removed or disrupted to allow the riboflavin drops to penetrate, after the procedure it heals over/grows back. So it's not a permanent removal. And KC affects several layers of the cornea, not just the epithelium (the top one).The idea of CXL is to strengthen the cornea and make it more rigid and stop KC progressing.
Hope that helps
Anne