Corneal Thickness Changes after Collagen Cross Linking in Keratoconus

Aim of Study: The aim of this study is to analyze changes in the central corneal thickness after collagen cross linking in eyes with progressive keratoconus.Methods: Thirty eyes of 22 patients with mean age 24.56± 3.79 years with progressive keratoconus were treated with UV-A-riboJjavin CXL and central corneal thickness was assessed with Scheimpflug imaging (Pentacam) at baseline, 1 and 6 months after CXL. Associations with clinical outcomes (best corrected distance visual acuities and maximum keratometry) were analyzed.Results: Mean preoperative central corneal pachymetry was 478.6±26.5um (range 405-531). Statistically significant corneal thinning was recorded after 1 months and 6 months with mean pachymetry (central corneal) of 452.8±23.8 and 469.46±27.93um respectively. There is statistically significant increase in mean central corneal thickness by 16.9±19.85um at 6 months compared to 1 month.Conclusion: After collagen cross linking there is significant central corneal thinning at 1 month and increased at 6 months but still the thinning is significant compared to baseline Thickness.