Corneal Cross-Linking

Patient FAQs

What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus is a non-inflammatory eye condition in which the typically round dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing the development of a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity of the cornea.

This causes “static” in your vision and can result in significant vision impairment.

What is cross-linking?

Cross-linking is a minimally invasive, FDA approved, outpatient procedure that combines the use of prescription eye drops, Photrexa® Viscous(riboflavin 5’-phosphate in 20% dextran ophthalmic solution), Photrexa® (riboflavin 5’-phosphate ophthalmic solution), and ultra-violet A (UVA) light from the KXL® system for the treatment of progressive keratoconus.

What can I expect during the procedure?

•  After numbing drops are applied, the epithelium (the thin layer on the surface of the cornea) is gently removed.

• Photrexa Viscous eye drops will be applied to the cornea for at least 30min.

• Depending on the thickness of your cornea, Photrexa drops may also be required.

•  The cornea is then exposed to UV light for 30 minutes while additional Photrexa Viscous drops are applied.

Does it hurt?

There is some discomfort during immediate recovery but usually not during the treatment. Immediately following treatment, a bandage contact lens is placed on the surface of the eye to protect the newly treated area. After the numbing drops wear off, there is some discomfort, often described as a gritty, burning sensation managed with Tylenol and artificial tears. If pain is severe, oral narcotic medications may be used.

What results can I expect?

In clinical trials, progressive keratoconus patients had an average of 1.4 -1.7 diopters of flattening at 12-months post-procedure, while the control group had steepening of up to 0.6 diopters at 12-months. Individual results may vary.