Keartoconus

If your Optometrist suspects Keratoconus it is vital that the condition is confirmed with corneal topography in the hospital system. The condition should then be closely monitored, preferably with topography, smaller changes are easier to detect using computerised analysis. If any deterioration is detected a referral to a collagen cross linking centre should then be made.

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At Thompson & Hardwick Optometrist we use topography on all suspected corneal cases and can help to monitor suspicious cases.

Collagen Cross Linking (CXL) is a minor procedure designed to harden the cornea and stop its shape from distorting. If a patient's cornea is changing this procedure can easily be performed to prevent any future changes. There are differing types of CXL, however, the most common (Epi-Off) starts by the surgeon removing the surface layer of the cornea, the eye is then dowsed in a vitamin solution including Riboflavin which is then exposed to regular doses of UV light. This action creates cross bonds within the corneal tissue, thus strengthening it and ultimately preventing future changes.

All Keratoconics should be monitored an offered this procedure in the event of deterioration. To do that the patients should be monitored at least annually in the hospital until the age of at least 30.

Contact lenses are the standard treatment for Keratoconus and work extremely well. Contact lenses can be the difference between a patient being eligible for partial sight registration and 20/20 (perfect) vision. 

At Thompson & Hardwick Optometrists we have a special interest in fitting these lenses and consider ourselves experts in the field. We see patients from all over the North West, England and even have some international patients. We will consider all types of lenses as we firmly believe that each patient is individual. However, our most successful lenses are Mini-Scleral lenses which have been life chnging for some of our more complicated cases.

Whilst surgery is a vital option for some patients, we at Thompson & Hardwick Optometrists believe that it should be the absolute last resort. This is due to the risks involved and the likelihood of lifetime medications and often the need for contact lenses post surgery. 

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Newer techniques have helped to lower the risks of surgery and increase the post-surgery refractive outcomes. Deep Anterior Lamella Keratoplasty (DALK) can be performed in the absence of significant corneal scarring and only removes the front two thirds of the cornea, leaving some of the host cornea to help make a more regular corneal shape and decrease the convalescence needed as well as the risk of rejection and/or failure.