We have exciting news for keratoconus patients: corneal collagen cross-linking (CXL) has been FDA approved as a treatment for weakened, bulging corneas. The Eye Clinic Surgicenter now offers corneal cross-linking in Billings, Montana, to restore strength, longevity and stability to the cornea, possibly decreasing the need for corneal transplants.
The CXL Process
Amazingly, the combination of vitamin B2 followed by the application of controlled ultraviolet light has been effective in increasing the amount of collagen cross-links in the cornea. A liquid riboflavin solution (vitamin B2) is applied to the eye in one of two ways:
- Applying the riboflavin solution directly on the eye (epithelium on or transepithelial)
- Removing a thin layer of the eye’s surface (epithelium off)
There is no cure for keratoconus, but even just one CXL treatment in Billings may help to slow the progression of the disease.
The Eye Clinic Surgicenter and Dr. C Byron Smith were proud to be part of the evaluation process for CXL that ultimately led to the FDA approval. We participated in a Multi-Center, Randomized, Controlled Evaluation of the Safety and Efficacy of the CXL System with VibeX (Riboflavin Ophthalmic Solution) for Corneal Collagen Cross Linking in Eyes with Keratoconus or Corneal Ectasia after Refractive Surgery. This is just another example of our commitment to improving our patients’ quality of life through innovative treatment options.
If your vision is suffering as a result of keratoconus, contact us today to schedule an eye exam with our keratoconus doctors in Billings and find out if CXL might help preserve your vision.