Ծառայության մասին
Interview with Dr. Elena Alexandri Malayan, Head of the Department of Advanced Diagnostics and Laser Treatment at the S.V. Malayan Ophthalmological Center
Topic: The Effectiveness of the Cross-Linking Technique
Cross-linking is one of the most advanced treatments for keratoconus, developed in Germany and Switzerland. Widely used across top European clinics, it has also been performed for over three years at the S.V. Malayan Ophthalmological Center.
This technique uses a specially calibrated ultraviolet laser to target the stromal layer of the cornea. As a result, the progression of keratoconus can be halted — and in some cases, completely stopped — often avoiding the need for corneal transplantation. The procedure is entirely painless, performed on an outpatient basis, and lasts 40–80 minutes.
Procedure Overview:
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In the first phase, specially formulated eye drops containing photosensitive agents are applied to saturate the corneal stroma.
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In the second phase, the laser is applied to the riboflavin-treated cornea.
This treatment acts as a kind of “cementing” of the corneal structure, strengthening the tissue, slowing down central thinning and bulging.
As a result, the progression of keratoconus stops, and the eye’s refraction remains stable.
Swiss Professor Theo Seiler, one of the pioneers of the method, stated:
"If my own son had keratoconus, I would schedule this treatment for him tomorrow."
When is Cross-Linking Recommended?
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In Stage I–II keratoconus, particularly in cases where the disease is actively progressing.
How is the Treatment Performed and How Long Does It Take?
The procedure includes 8 sequential stages and takes approximately 80 minutes:
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Eye pre-medication with pupil-constricting drops
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Local anesthesia with numbing drops
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Placement of an eyelid speculum and removal of the corneal epithelium
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Application of Lidocaine drops
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Application of Riboflavin phosphate drops for 10–15 minutes
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Continued Riboflavin drops and start of UV light exposure, monitored in real time
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Riboflavin drops are applied every 2–3 minutes during laser exposure
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Final corneal rinse, anti-inflammatory drops, and application of a therapeutic contact lens (removed after 5 days)
Contraindications for Cross-Linking:
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Corneal thickness less than 400 microns at its thinnest point
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Herpetic keratitis, active corneal inflammation, or severe dry eye syndrome
What Are the Main Benefits of Cross-Linking?
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Slows down the progression of keratoconus
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Stabilizes refraction
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Prevents the need for corneal transplantation
The procedure is usually performed once and provides long-term results (8–10 years), after which it may be repeated if necessary.
About Keratoconus
Keratoconus is a relatively common condition in our region, and early diagnosis is key to preventing its progression.
For over 9 years, under the leadership of Dr. Elena Malayan, the Department of Advanced Diagnostics and Laser Surgery at the S.V. Malayan Ophthalmological Center has been successfully treating keratoconus using corneal collagen cross-linking. Results have exceeded expectations — in most cases, the disease's progression has been stopped, corneal transplants avoided, and vision significantly improved.
Cross-linking is a truly modern method that increases the mechanical strength of the cornea. It is a safe, standardized procedure that is effective only in the early stages of the disease.
The specialized UV laser slows or stops disease progression and helps avoid the need for a transplant. The cornea is reinforced, reducing further thinning and bulging.
Thus, keratoconus progression halts, and visual stability is maintained.
Today, thousands of patients worldwide have undergone cross-linking.
Five-year follow-up studies show:
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Over 85% experienced significant vision improvement
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80% showed a decrease in astigmatism after 6 months
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92% achieved disease stabilization and avoided corneal transplantation
📞 For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 35-89-41 or 35-49-81