Dr Lee Mun Toong
LASIK-XTRA is a non-invasive, fast and assumed low-risk procedure in which Corneal Collagen Cross-Linking (CXL) is performed in conjunction with LASIK. Combination of Riboflavin together with U-V light will activate and enhance cornea’s collagen fibrin to cross-link so as to strengthen the infra-structure of the cornea.
This treatment is recommended for LASIK patients and is especially beneficial for patients with high myopia, marginal corneal scan results, younger patients and those with thin corneas.
Basically, anyone who is at greater risk of developing ectasia after refractive surgery would be considered a high-risk patient.
LASIK Xtra is currently European Certified (CE Mark) and is undergoing US FDA-approval clinical trials.
What is the mechanism of LASIK Xtra?
They key elements used for LASIK Xtra are Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) and an Ultra-Violet light source. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is a natural occurring vitamin in our body, including the eye and other food sources. It has been used for more than a decade as a photosensitizer (a medium to initiate a reaction by absorbing light) for corneal cross-linking procedure. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) is non-toxic and is also commonly used as an additive in food and pharmaceuticals. Ultra-Violet A (UVA) is one of the 3 types of invisible light rays given off by the sun (together with ultra-violet B and ultra-violet C) and is the weakest of the three. Exposure to UVA light during LASIK Xtra is comparable, or even less than, the exposure of the eye to the UVA light in sunlight for a day outdoors in the summer.
The effects of Lasik extra:
Based on one of the study1, it is believed that some effects are as follows:
- Extend the longevity of LASIK, decreasing the need for enhancement(varies from individual to individual)
- Improve the accuracy of a LASIK procedure.
- Increase Stability in Visual Outcomes and achieve higher quality of vision insuring as safe eye care as possible.
- Reduce the potential for long-term changes in our vision
1.Lasik Xtra® Provides Corneal Stability and Improved Outcomes.Rajesh K. Rajpal,corresponding author Christine B. Wisecarver, Dawn Williams, Sachin D. Rajpal, Rhonda Kerzner, Nick Nianiaris, Grace Lytle, and Khoa Hoang Ophthalmol Ther. 2015 Dec; 4(2): 89–102.Published online 2015 Oct 26. doi: 10.1007/s40123-015-0039-x
