| abstract |
An accelerated method of orthokeratology includes the steps of softening of the cornea with a softening agent, applying a mold to reshape the cornea to a desired anterior curvature, and rapidly restabilizing or "fixing" the corneal tissues so that the cornea retains its new configuration. A chemical softening agent, such as glutaric anhydride is applied to the cornea to soften the cornea, after which a specially designed mold of predetermined curvature and configuration is applied to the cornea. Slight downward pressure is applied to the mold for a predetermined period of time to re-shape the cornea. The mold is maintained in position while a stabilizing agent, such as a UV light source, is positioned above the mold. The stabilizing agent, i.e. UV light, is applied to the cornea for a predetermined time, wherein the stabilizing agent immediately restabilizes the corneal tissue so that the cornea immediately retains its shape upon removal of the mold. The stabilization process can also be used for patients having already undergone traditional orthokeratology to eliminate the need to continue wearing a retainer to maintain the shape of the cornea. |