Collagen Cross-Linking with Riboflavin(also known as С3-R ,UVX and now CXL) -
A new hope for Keratoconus patients
There is finally some good news for patients with keratoconus and their physicians.
Corneal Collagen Cross-linking using Riboflavin involves application of Riboflavin drops to the cornea, followed by exposure of the cornea to low dose ultraviolet A light. The activated riboflavin induces collagen fibrils(glue that holds the body together) to thicken, stiffen, & re-attach i.e. cross-link to each other creating new bonds between the adjacent collagen molecules leading to increase in the rigidity and thereby rendering cornea less malleable.
Keratoconus, a ectatic corneal disease usually progresses in the younger age group
Earlier ,the only way to make the patient see better was by fitting special contact lenses, intracorneal rings or if all else failed a lamellar or full thickness corneal transplant.
These surgical treatments have their limitations and need for lifelong care and follow up.
This is the only procedure which eventually stops/ delays the progression of Corneal ectasia and this helps in stable fitting for Contact lenses and glasses and most importantly to delay and in come cases avoid a corneal transplant.
Advantages of CrossLinking Treatment with Riboflavin
· Causes an increase in corneal stiffness of the anterior 200-250 μm
· Deeper structures don‘t get damaged
· Simple one time treatment
· Halts the progress and causes some regression
· No injection , No stitches & No incisions as in Keratoplasty
· Quick & Easy treatment with low costs.
