The Ophthalmologist as Patient
Based on an ophthalmic surgeon/patient’s experience, modified epithelial on crosslinking may lead to substantially more discomfort and longer recovery than anticipated. Additionally, standard medications may less effective than surgeons think, according to James C. Loden, MD, clinical assistant professor, University of Tennessee College of Medicine in Memphis. He spoke about his experience during the during the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery’s 2018 annual meeting in Washington, DC.
The surgeon’s right eye underwent 10-micron laser PTK, followed by a 30-minute soak with RiboFlavin. 5-minute accelerated crosslinking was then performed at 18 mW, and RiboFlavin was applied for 5 minutes without UV light. A 5-minute UV treatment was then applied at 3 mW. RiboFlavin soak was then performed for 5 minutes prior to a final treatment of 3 mW for 5 minutes. Among the results:
- The surgeon/patient found procedure easy and comfortable.
- Postoperatively, there was significant photophobia and foreign body sensation for 4 days. Foreign body sensation lasted 2 weeks.
- Non-steroidal drops and topical proparacaine were ineffective.
Loden J. Crosslinking from a surgeon and patient perspective. Talk presented at: 2018 ASCRS-ASOA Annual Meeting; April 13-17, 2018; Washington, DC.
