CXL: Corneal Cross-Linking

A Method to Strengthen Abnormally Thin or Curvature-Distorted Corneas

Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking with Riboflavin and UV light ("CXL" or "C3R") is a technique that was first used in 1998 to treat patients with a corneal thinning disorder called keratoconus. In keratoconus, the cornea (the clear curved front 'window' of the eye) becomes thin, weak, and bulges abnormally. The distortion of curvature creates optical distortion that cannot be corrected with even state-of-the-art laser corrective methods. Instead, custom contact lenses are typically required, and if the condition becomes advanced, corneal transplant may be warranted.

UV cross-linking is now being performed for patients with this condition at nearly 400 centers throughout the world, outside the U.S. It is not yet widely available in the U.S. as the combination therapy with UV light and Riboflavin is not specifically approved by the US Food and Drug Administration ("FDA"). Through a research study coordinated by the CXL-USA Study Group, select participating centers are now able to provide this breakthrough treatment to qualified patients.