Corneal Crosslinking (CXL) is a minimally invasive procedure that strengthens the cornea by applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops, followed by UV light exposure. This combination creates new collagen cross-links within corneal fibers, stabilizing and reinforcing the cornea to prevent further thinning and distortion.
Crosslinking
Procedure
Crosslinking
Crosslinking is a quick and minimally invasive treatment that strengthens the cornea and prevents further progression of Keratoconus.
The cornea is the clear surface that covers the front of the eye and helps focus light. It is made up of millions of fibers that are linked together to maintain the cornea’s dome-like shape.
In conditions such as keratoconus, the links between corneal fibers are weakened, altering the cornea’s shape. This can lead to distorted vision that can worsen over time. To strengthen and stabilize the shape of your cornea, your doctor may recommend corneal crosslinking.
Crosslinking is a minimally invasive treatment that involves applying drops of a vitamin solution called riboflavin to the cornea. The saturated cornea will then be exposed to UV light, which activates the solution. The drops and light work together to make the bonds in the cornea stronger, preventing further progression.
An Overview: Crosslinking
Surgery is only performed on optimal patients when no other treatment would be effective. While crosslinking cannot reverse keratoconus, it can help slow its progression.
At a Glance:
Corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) stabilizes progression of keratoconus and significantly improves visual acuity while reducing aberration.
Benefits and Highlights:
- Effective, non-surgical treatment to prevent keratoconus progression
- Pain free, with use of numbing drops
- Quick, outpatient procedure
- Entire procedure complete within 30 minutes
- Minimally invasive with the most advanced instruments and technology
What to Expect: About the Procedure
If we determine you are a good candidate for Crosslinking, we’ll continue on with the process.
The doctor applies numbing drops and then specifically formulated riboflavin (vitamin B2) drops to your eyes. After 10 minutes, which allows the vitamin to soak into your cornea, your doctor will have you lie back and look up at a UV light developed specifically for this treatment.
Why CODET for Crosslinking?
- Dr. Chayet is a highly experienced and renowned expert in keratoconus and crosslinking
- CODET uses the most advanced technology in surgical and diagnostic equipment for crosslinking
About our Technology and Facilities
CODET often times utilizes exclusive equipment and technology or that is only available at the most prestigious ophthalmology institutes in the world. Equipment utilized for crosslinking and in the treatment of keratoconus:
- Anterion
- Avedro KXL – the only crosslinking device approved by the FDA
How Does Crosslinking Work?
Learn more about the procedure.