Corneal Cross-Linking

Corneal cross-linking, often referred to as CXL, is an innovative procedure that was devised to treat corneal diseases including keratoconus. The procedure works to strengthen and reinforce the collagen fibers within the cornea and thus limit the progression of corneal disease, allowing the patient to avoid a further decline in their vision. Our corneal cross-linking specialists at Sight360 can help determine whether this pioneering procedure is the right choice for you. We will also explain how corneal cross-linking works and outline the risks, benefits, and recovery.

How Corneal Cross-Linking Works

The CXL procedure works through the application of vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin, to the cornea. In order to prepare the eye for treatment, the outer layer of the cornea, called the epithelium, is removed. This helps ensure the vitamin B2 solution will penetrate into the deeper layers of the cornea. Then, the riboflavin drops are applied to the eye. Next, the eye is exposed to a specific wavelength of ultraviolet light, activating the riboflavin, which in turn makes it possible for new chemical bonds to form in the cornea. The epithelium then re-grows over the following 3-4 days while a bandage contact lens is worn to promote healing. These steps allow for the development of novel cross-links between the collagen fibers within the cornea. As a result, the cornea becomes stronger and more stable. For patients with corneal diseases such as keratoconus, which causes thinning of the cornea, corneal collagen cross-linking can limit the progression of deformation and also improve vision.

Benefits of Corneal Cross-Linking

This procedure is celebrated for its many advantages and has become the first line treatment for certain corneal conditions. Here are some of the benefits to consider:

• Preventing the progression of disease – The CXL procedure can halt the advancement of keratoconus and other corneal diseases. Because it strengthens the tissue of the cornea, it limits the potential for additional thinning and thus minimizes further deformation.
• Improving vision clarity – Corneal cross-linking is not specifically a vision correction procedure, but it can enhance patients’ clarity of vision. Through its function of stabilizing the cornea, it also stabilizes vision over time. As a result, patients often require fewer changes to their vision prescriptions after having undergone the procedure.
• Minimally invasive treatment – Another benefit of the CXL procedure is that the recovery period is quite short relative to more invasive surgeries. While improvements in vision may take several months to stabilize, patients can generally resume normal activities in a week or two.

Risks of Corneal Cross-Linking

As with most medical procedures, there are some potential risks to consider with the CXL procedure. For example, while rare, there is a risk of infection due to the removal of the corneal epithelium. However, following post-procedure care instructions will minimize this risk. Additionally, some patients may deal with cornea swelling, which can cause blurred vision but typically resolves on its own during the healing process. Finally, a certain level of discomfort and mild irritation is to be expected following the procedure.

Turn to Sight360 to Determine if Corneal Cross-Linking Is Right for You

If you are dealing with the symptoms of keratoconus or another corneal disease and want to know whether the CXL procedure could be beneficial for you, look to our experts at Sight360. We can guide you through every step of the treatment process and help make sure you have all the information you need to protect your vision and your health. For details about this procedure or to book a consultation with our corneal cross-linking specialists, simply contact our experienced team at Sight360 today.