Corneal Cross Linking

Corneal Cross Linking

While most of the procedures we perform at Eye LASIK Austin are for the correction of vision, Corneal Cross Linking is instead designed to stop the progression of a corneal disease known as keratoconus. Keratoconus is potentially a sight-threatening condition and in the past, could only be treated with a corneal transplant.

Eye LASIK Austin is thrilled to now be able to offer Corneal Cross-Linking. Corneal cross-linking is the only FDA-approved therapeutic treatment for progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia (steepening) following refractive surgery. Eye LASIK Austin exclusively uses Avedro’s KXL System because it is the only FDA approved cross-linking device in the United States.

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What is keratoconus?

Keratoconus, often referred to as ‘KC’, is an eye condition in which the cornea weakens and thins over time, causing the development of a cone-like bulge and optical irregularity of the cornea. A rare condition, keratoconus typically first appears in individuals who are in their late teens or early twenties.

Keratoconus:

  • Can result in significant visual loss; and
  • May lead to corneal transplant in severe cases

Corneal Cross Linking

In keratoconus patients, the typically round, dome-shaped cornea progressively thins and weakens, causing the development of a cone-like bulge that produces optical irregularities that affect vision. A rare condition, keratoconus typically appears in individuals who are in their late teens or early twenties. Early symptoms include blurring or distortion of vision or increased sensitivity to light. Corneal ectasia, also marked by progressive corneal steepening and thinning, is a rare but serious complication resulting from vision correction procedures—such as laser-assisted in-situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and is associated with worsening vision.

The Corneal Cross Linking Procedure

Corneal cross-linking using Avedro’s Photrexa products and KXL System is a medical procedure that combines the use of ultra-violet (UV) light and riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops. The procedure works by creating new corneal collagen cross-links, which results in a shortening and thickening of collagen fibrils that leads to the stiffening the cornea. Cross linking, which has been performed in Europe since 2003, is considered the standard of care around the world for keratoconus and corneal ecstasia following refractive surgery.

The safety of our patients is of the utmost importance for us, so we believe in using the surgeries and techniques that have been thoroughly evaluated for safety and effectiveness. Avedro’s KXL System is the only system that currently offers that level of safety in this country. Click here for important safety information.

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Eye LASIK Austin

6500 N. Mopac • Building 2, Suite 2101 • Austin, TX 78731

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T 512.346.3937 | wecare@eyelasikaustin.com
Hours: Monday-Friday: 8am–5pm • Closed Weekends