Written by Apgujeong Eye Clinic
2025.02.20
Abedro Extra CXL is a corneal collagen crosslinking procedure developed by Abedro, a company based in the United States. This method enhances the collagen bonding strength in the cornea, helping to reinforce weakened corneal tissue and provide increased stability and safety. To date, Abedro Extra has been performed over 100,000 times in 54 countries worldwide. It is produced by Medio-Haus, a German company with long-standing expertise in the field. Abedro Extra is exclusively handled by Abedro, and the safety and effectiveness of this procedure have been validated through numerous SCI-level research papers.
CXL (Corneal Crosslinking) involves the following steps: First, the corneal stroma is separated, and riboflavin (vitamin B2), a photosensitizing substance, is applied to the corneal tissue. After this, ultraviolet A (UVA) light is carefully applied to the cornea in an appropriate amount, initiating the crosslinking process that strengthens the tissue. This procedure is carried out quickly and concentratedly. Using the KXL device by Abedro, the correct amount of energy is delivered in a short time. The medical team can adjust the UVA light exposure in real-time based on the patient's eye movement to ensure precise application.
This procedure can be applied to individuals who have undergone LASIK, LASEK, or SMILE LASIK, but it is especially beneficial for those with thin corneas by nature, those with high myopia requiring significant tissue removal, or those who have insufficient residual corneal thickness post-surgery. It also helps those with unstable corneal shapes. Additionally, for patients with myopic or hyperopic regression tendencies, it can be effective in maintaining stable vision over time. CXL strengthens the corneal collagen fibers, making them thicker and improving the connections between fibers, which helps in stabilizing the cornea. When applied to SMILE LASIK, riboflavin and UVA light are used during the procedure to heal damaged corneal tissue, preventing complications like keratoconus and corneal ectasia by enhancing the elasticity and adhesive strength of the cornea by approximately 150%. While SMILE LASIK using the VisuMax femtosecond laser already minimizes corneal damage and provides excellent results, CXL adds extra stability, especially since side effects from laser surgeries like LASIK or LASEK are not entirely avoidable. If you're concerned about potential complications after vision correction surgery, consider CXL as an additional step to ensure greater stability and a safer procedure. For those hesitant about surgery due to concerns over side effects, opting for a clinic that offers Abedro Extra CXL can provide a higher level of safety and peace of mind.
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