gms | German Medical Science

Purpose: The aim of this paper was to analyze the nearest results of the local UV-crosslinking in correction of hypermetropic shift (change) in patients after radial keratotomy.

Methods: We have performed a retrospective study of 6 patients 6 eyes, aged from 33 to 54 years (43,5). There were 4 males and 2 females. The period after radial keratotomy was 12 years (from 9 till 15 years). Follow-up period: from 3 to 12 months. In the studied group mean values before operation were: UCVA 0,18; BCVA 0,37; keratometry 34,4; mean pachymetry value 589,9 microns; anterior corneal surface elevation 70,8 microns; and mean posterior corneal surface elevation 104,66 microns.

Results: UCVA improved to 0,05 by 1 months after operation, however, by 3 months it was decreased to preoperative values and did not change further.

BCVA did not change by 3 months after operation. We analyzed changes of refraction, corneal thickness and changes in front and back surfaces of the cornea according to the oculus Pentacam HR. According to the pachymetry data in 3 month after the operation there was a decrease of corneal thickness to 15 microns. The refraction was changed in 1–1,5 Diopters according to the topographic map. There were no changes of anterior and posterior corneal surface elevation during the whole follow-up period.

Conclusion: All patients noted the absence of fluctuations of visual acuity, but we have not received a significant improvement in refraction. Our group of patients and follow up period are too small for today so we can’t talk about global conclusions. At the nearest postoperative period there were no complications, such as sterile infiltrates, corneal haze and infection.

During follow-up period we have received positive effect of the local UV crosslinking to the corneal refraction, however, the changes of keratometry, changes of the anterior and posterior surfaces of the cornea, demonstrate insufficient effect of the local UV cross-linking.