Abstract

Study Design- Prospective interventional case series
Purpose – To investigate if Collagen Cross Linking (CXL) helps in regressing blood vessels in a vascularized cornea
Methods – Eyes with vascularized corneal scars secondary to lipid keratopathy (LK), resolved microbial keratitis (non-Viral cause) with documented resolution 3 months prior underwent peripheral Epi-off CXL (centered around the area of vascularization) with the accelerated Dresden protocol. Standardized Image analysis, Corneal Densitometry, Anterior segment OCT with pachymetry and OCT angiography (OCTA) were done at the baseline and in follow up visits (at 1 week, 1,3 and 6 months).
Results- 9 patients recruited and followed up till 6 months. Reduction in vasculature noted at month three. Significant reduction in vessel area and density of scarring was noted with improved vision in 2 patients as LK regressed. No adverse events noted.
Conclusion- CXL is efficacious and safe therapy to reduce corneal vascularization.