Corneal-Cross-Linking

Mass Eye and Ear Physicians Among the Most Experienced Nationwide with Advanced, Sight-Saving Procedure

Corneal cross-linking is a minimally invasive, in-office procedure that is the only treatment that can slow or stop the progression of keratoconus—an eye condition that causes the cornea to become thin, weak, and irregularly shaped. It can also be used to treat rare complications from LASIK surgery.

Previously, the only treatment options available were eye glasses/contact lenses and, in advanced cases, corneal transplant surgery. 

Reducing the Need for Corneal Transplants

“In patients with keratoconus, the corneas become very elastic and tend to bulge. As a result, it becomes increasingly difficult to see,” said Kathryn M. Hatch, MD, Director of the Refractive Surgery Service at Mass Eye and Ear.

Corneal collagen cross-linking, sometimes called CXL, helps strengthen the cornea. During the procedure, liquid vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is placed in the eyes and exposed to ultraviolet light. This treatment increases the collagen fiber crosslinks, which act like the cornea’s support beams—making the cornea stronger and increasing its ability to maintain its shape and focusing power.

Mass Eye and Ear—A National Leader in Corneal Cross-Linking

Mass Eye and Ear physicians have been at the forefront of corneal cross-linking research, long before it was FDA-approved in 2016. They have participated in several cross-linking studies—making them among the most experienced with the procedure nationally.