What does the accelerated corneal cross-linking procedure involve?

The procedure involves applying riboflavin (vitamin B2) eye drops to the cornea, followed by exposure to a controlled dose of ultraviolet-A (UV-A) light for approximately 10 minutes. This combination strengthens the corneal tissue by creating new chemical bonds between collagen fibers, helping to halt the progression of keratoconus or other corneal ectasias. The accelerated protocol uses higher-intensity UV-A for a shorter duration compared to traditional CXL, making it more convenient for patients.