What is Cross-Linking (CXL)?

Cross-linking (CXL) is a chance for a positive qualification for laser vision correction for all patients who otherwise might not be eligible for the procedure due to keratoconus.

The personalised corneal fast cross-linking treatment – Custom Fast (MEGARIDE) offered by the ArtLife Ophthalmological Centre, allows the entire procedure to be carried out quickly and safely. It is performed by our refractive surgeons, which is why it can be successfully combined with laser vision correction.

What is it and what effects does it bring?

It aims to strengthen the cornea's structure by creating new cross-links between collagen fibres. During the procedure, riboflavin is instilled several times on the cornea in quick succession. Then it is irradiated with a specially designed UV lamp. The entire procedure is conducted under local anaesthesia in the form of eye drops.

Its action reduces the risk of keratoconus progression. Over the years, the use of the CXL treatment has expanded to include the therapy of corneal ectasia or difficult-to-treat inflammations and infections of the cornea. It is characterised by low invasiveness and its advantage is that it can be combined with other procedures.

The methods

Cross-linking is preceded by a thorough qualifying examination during which an ophthalmic surgeon checks the parameters of the cornea and assesses the severity of the disease. On the basis of the examination results, the doctor decides which of the two methods available in our Centre to use. We offer the following methods:

• Epi-On – treatment without removing the epithelium (transepithelial). The possible symptoms following the procedure include: redness of the eyes, foreign body sensation in the eye, temporary photophobia – up to 24 hours after the procedure
• Epi-Off – treatment involving the removal (abrasion) of the epithelium. After the procedure, patients may experience pain and discomfort, as well as temporary photophobia. All symptoms should disappear within three to four days.

Regardless of the method chosen for the procedure, the first follow-up appointment is scheduled a week after the treatment.

Indications to the procedure

• Diagnosed keratoconus
• Undiagnosed keratoconus in candidates for laser vision correction
• Corneal ectasias
• corneal infections

Patients should stop wearing soft contact lenses at least seven days before the procedure. In the case of hard or toric lenses, the time during which wearing the lenses is not allowed is longer – approximately three to four weeks before the procedure.

Contraindications to the procedure

• Active inflammations in the body and eye infections (for instance conjunctivitis or blepharitis – an eyelid infection)
• Untreated or unmonitored chronic diseases (such as diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis)
• Excessively thin cornea
• Pregnancy and lactation

If you have noticed vision deterioration and your glasses or contact lenses fail to accomplish their purpose or if you have been diagnosed with keratoconus, make an appointment for an examination qualifying for the cross-linking treatment. You can do it via phone or e-mail . Under the PRICELIST tab, you can always find the current prices of all the examinations and procedures offered in our Centre.

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