STANDARD VS ACCELERATED CORNEAL CROSS LINKING IN PATIENTS WITH PROGRESSIVE KERATOCONUS

To compare the clinical outcomes and corneal topography after standard Dresden protocol cross linking (CXL)  versus accelerated CXL in patients with progressive keratoconus aiming to evaluate efficacy, safety and potential advantages of accelerated protocols in reducing treatment time while maintaining effectiveness. 

This study was conducted at the Department of Ophthalmology, Clinical Center of Kosova, Prishtine, a tertiary center. All procedures were performed following standard institutional protocols. Patients were monitored postoperatively.

This study included 66 patients diagnosed with progressive keratoconus. They were divided into two groups: the first group underwent standard CXL (3 mW/cm² for 30 minutes), while the second group underwent accelerated CXL (9 mW/cm² for 10 minutes). Parameters such as changes in maximum keratometry (Kmax), corneal thickness, and postoperative complications were evaluated during a 24-month follow-up period.

Both protocols were effective in stabilizing keratoconus.The reduction in Kmax was statistically comparable in both groups. No significant differences in postoperative corneal thickness were observed. Accelerated CXL had shorter procedural time and less post-treatment discomfort. 

Both cross-linking protocols are effective in slowing the progression of keratoconus. Accelerated CXL represents a valuable alternative with time advantages and no postoperative complications.