Research study into treatment for keratoconus and corneal ectasia

A clinical trial is being conducted by the Cornea and Laser Eye Institute (CLEI) into the efficacy and safety of corneal collagen crosslinking (CXL) using riboflavin/dextran and hypotonic riboflavin in patients with progressive keratoconus and corneal ectasia.

This research study will reveal whether there are any differences between the two riboflavin preparations during UV administration. The first preparation involves riboflavin in a dextran solution, which could keep the cornea thinner by removing water. In the second preparation riboflavin in a hypotonic solution will be used, which could keep the cornea more swollen.

The main goal of the study is to determine if the use of hypotonic riboflavin will help to maintain consistent corneal thickness during CXL. The secondary aim is to find out whether or not maintenance of the corneal thickness will benefit the reliability of the procedure, decrease corneal haze formation and improve safety of the endothelial cells.