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The IEI is one of the only clinics in the region offering this non-invasive procedure for patients with corneal ectasia or keratoconus.

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Instead of surgery, we use Vitamin B2 drops and UV light to strengthen corneal tissue. This can slow disease progression and help patients effectively wear contact lenses.

Corneal Cross-Linking

Corneal cross-linking was FDA approved in April 2016.

 

It is a minimally-invasive procedure that combines the use of Vitamin B2 eye drops and ultra-violet (UV) light to help strengthen corneal tissue that has been weakened by disease.

 

Normal corneas have crosslinks within their collagen fibers to keep them strong and able to retain their shape.

 

In keratoconus, the cornea is weak with insufficient support.

 

Corneal cross-linking works by increasing the collagen crosslinks which are the natural “anchors” within the cornea. These anchors are responsible for preventing the cornea from bulging out and becoming steep and irregular.

 

While cross-linking is not a cure for keratoconus, it may slow the progression of the disease, making the cornea more stable.

 

It may also make contact lens fitting easier, but may not completely correct your vision or eliminate the need for glasses and/or contact lenses.

Description

Candidates

  • Over 14 years old with progression

  • None to minimal corneal scarring

  • Maximum Keratometry reading of <60 Diopters

  • Corneal Pachymetry > 400 microns

Contraindications

  • Pregnancy

  • Active herpetic disease

  • Corneal Pachymetry <400 microns

  • History of poor healing

  • Active ocular infection

  • Autoimmune disease

  • Severe ocular surface disease

  • Severe corneal scarring

Indications

  • Corneal cross-linking inhibits the progression or corneal ectasia and keratoconus.

  • It may be combined with Intacs® and photoablation.

  • The goal of the procedure is to treat at diagnosis versus wait for progression.

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