Simultaneous topography-guided partial photorefractive keratectomy and corneal collagen crosslinking for keratoconus

PURPOSE: To report the visual, refractive, and clinical outcomes of simultaneous topography-guided partial photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) and corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) in eyes with keratoconus. SETTING: Private practice surgery center, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. DESIGN: Retrospective cohort study. METHODS: Refraction, uncorrected (UDVA) and corrected (CDVA) distance visual acuities, flat and steep keratometry (K) readings, and complications were evaluated 1, 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. RESULTS: The study enrolled 31 eyes of 31 patients aged 21 to 42 years. All study parameters showed a statistically significant improvement at 3, 6, and 12 months over baseline values. At 12 months, the mean UDVA improved to 0.23 logMAR±0.33 (SD) from 0.79±0.36 logMAR (P<.001) and the CDVA improved to 0.06±0.07 logMAR from 0.28±0.20 logMAR (P<.001). The mean defocus decreased from 3.45±1.60 diopters (D) to 1.88±1.58 D (P<.001). The flat K and steep K readings showed significant flattening. The mean refractive astigmatism decreased from -2.77±1.47 D to -0.98±0.76 D (P<.001). The improvement in study parameters plateaued after 3 months. CONCLUSION: Simultaneous topography-guided partial PRK and CXL was effective, safe, and stable in keratoconus patients. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE: No author has a financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned.