Riboflavin‐ultraviolet light induced cross‐linking in endothelial decompensation

Purpose: To evaluate the potential of collagen cross‐linking in the treatment of corneal oedema caused by endothelial decompensation. Methods: Riboflavin‐ultraviolet (UV) treatment induces cross‐linking and reduces stromal swelling. Eleven patients with corneal oedema were treated. The technique comprised: epithelial abrasion; instillation of 0.1% riboflavin in saline, and 5.4 J/cm² illumination with 365 nm UV‐A light over approximately 30 mins (3 mW/cm²). Results: A reduction in corneal thickness was observed in 10 patients. The majority also experienced improvement in vision. The effect occurred over weeks and lasted for months. Conclusions: The study shows a potential application of collagen cross‐linking in the management of patients with corneal oedema. Experimental and additional clinical studies are necessary in order to define the precise indications for this type of treatment.