Corneal Cross Linking (CXL) for Keratoconus
Corneal cross linking (CXL) is a procedure to strengthen the cornea and stabilize the corneal changes caused by Keratoconus or other corneal disease. Alternative names for the procedure include corneal cross linking, corneal collagen cross linking, C3-R, CXL, CCL, KXL, and others. The minimally invasive treatment involves applying liquid riboflavin to the surface of the eye, followed by treatment with a controlled application of ultraviolet light, to eliminate corneal ectasia.
While corneal cross linking is performed in many countries around the world to treat Keratoconus, it has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of Keratoconus. However, many Keratoconus Specialists are performing the procedure, “off label”, with great success.
UPDATE 4/18/2016:
FDA Approves Photrexa for Corneal Crosslinking in Keratoconus.Click here for more information.
Corneal cross linking (CXL) for Keratoconus
Cross linking is a great option for early stages of Keratoconus to prevent further damage, or if the corneas is constantly changing. However, corneal cross linking will not reverse the damage, and in many cases options like RGP Lenses, Scleral Lenses, PVR PROSE Treatment or EyePrint Pro are needed after the corneal cross linking (CXL) procedure. For more information on Cross Linking visit www.allaboutvision.com .