HTA Details
Collagen Cross-Linking Using Riboflavin and Ultraviolet-A for Corneal Thinning Disorders
- Publication date
-
2011-November-01
- Status
- Final
- Topic Area
- Eye
- Recommendation
-
Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee Recommendations
- Based on moderate quality evidence that corneal collagen cross-linking effectively stabilizes the underlying disease process, the Ontario Health Technology Advisory Committee recommends that corneal collagen cross-linking be made available to patients with corneal thinning disorders such as keratoconus that are progressive in nature.
- As corneal collagen cross-linking does not always improve visual acuity, adjunctive procedures such as intrastromal corneal ring segments may need to be considered for visual rehabilitation and to avoid a corneal transplant.
- Ministry Response
-
The Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care has accepted this recommendation.
-
To read the full OHTAC Recommendation Report for this topic, contact our Health Innovation team using the contact form to request a digital copy.
Corneal thinning is an eye disease that occurs when the cornea (the front layer of the eye) gets thinner and bulges out. These changes result in a loss of visual acuity (sharpness of vision) that can make even simple daily tasks difficult. The thinning is believed to be a breakdown of the collagen, the protein fibres that give the cornea its shape, strength and flexibility. Keratoconus is the most common form of corneal thinning disorders.
Vision problems due to corneal thinning usually get worse with time. If glasses or contact lenses no longer help, patients may be referred for corneal transplant as a last option.
Collagen cross-linking is a relatively new treatment for some types of corneal thinning, such as keratoconus. The procedure involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B) drops to the eye and then exposing the eye to ultraviolet-A light. The treatment is intended to strengthen the cornea and prevent further thinning and bulging.
Last Updated: February 24, 2026
