Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking
Strengths and stabilises the cornea
Corneal Collagen Crosslinking
Corneal Collagen Cross-linking (or CXL) is a treatment that strengthens the cornea by forming cross-links or bonds between the collagen. This causes the cornea to become stiffer and resist further deformation and vision loss.
Shape Stabilisation
Collagen-crosslinking (CXL) was widely introduced around 2012. It has transformed the management of keratoconus and corneal ectasias. CXL was the first treatment to halt keratoconus in its tracks, preventing further vision loss. It is effective in over 90% of people
Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking FAQ's
How does corneal collagen cross linking help?
The cornea is made up of layers of protein fibres called collagen. In keratoconus and other conditions of the cornea, there is a progressive weakening of these collagen fibres that allows the cornea to deform. In keratoconus, this weakening results in irregularities in the corneal surface causing it to change it shape, which in turn causes the vision to deteriorate. CXL aims to build protein fibres and collagen bonds to strengthen the cornea.
Who needs corneal collagen crosslinking?
Cross linking is recommended to prevent further deterioration in people with worsening keratoconus. Although cross-linking aims to stabilise your vision, some patients may notice a slight improvement in their vision. Glasses or contact lens will still be required for good vision.
Collagen cross-linking can also be used to treat other conditions with weakened corneas such as post-LASIK ectasia and pellucid marginal degeneration.
How does it work?
Cross linking uses ultraviolet light and vitamin B to strengthen the cornea. First, the surface layer of the eye (epithelium), is gently removed and the cornea is soaked with vitamin B drops that coat the collagen fibres, after which ultraviolet light is beamed on the cornea to form links between vitamin B molecules and bind the fibres.
This is an out-patient procedure and both eyes can be treated at the same time.
Does it hurt?
The eye is anaesthetised with drops so you won’t feel anything during treatment. Once treatment is completed a bandaged contact lens is placed in the eye to help with healing and discomfort.
How long is recovery?
The eye will feel gritty and uncomfortable, especially for the first 48-72 hours. These symptoms will improve over the next week and we will assess your progress between 7-10 days.
Vision will initially be blurred. It will be at its worst on days 5-7 after treatment and then slowly improve. Typically, you will regain >80% of your vision after two weeks, with the remaining settling over the coming weeks. It is normal for vision to vary during this period. You will find lubricants helpful. You may need to change your glasses or contact lenses after a few weeks.
