Dr. Ken Beckman Shares Insights on Groundbreaking Epithelium-On Cross-Linking Treatment at ASCRS Conference

Burlington, MA – May 10, 2023 – Dr. Ken Beckman, a renowned authority in ophthalmology, took the stage at the recent ASCRS (American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery) conference to discuss the advancements in epithelium-on (epi-on) cross-linking treatment, specifically highlighting the groundbreaking work by CXL Ophthalmics, Inc. (CXLO).

In his presentation – which was part of the Symposia titled, “Evaluating Irregular Corneas for Refractive Surgery” – Dr. Beckman shed light on CXLO’s EpiSmart protocol. He first established the three vital components of successful cross-linking reaction: riboflavin, UV light, and oxygen. Then, he explained how CXLO’s unique sodium iodide component creates free oxygen within the cornea. This ingenious method enables an efficient cross-linking reaction without the need for supplemental oxygen, setting it apart from conventional treatments.

"What they do differently here,” he said, “this is not providing supplemental oxygen. In fact, it's actually the chemical that's making the difference."

In traditional cross-linking with insufficient oxygen, he explains, “you get a buildup of hydrogen peroxide, which is toxic to the cornea [and] leads to cell death. But because of the riboflavin and its sodium iodide component, the reaction actually creates free oxygen within the cornea. So this allows us to have enough oxygen within the cornea tissue to have an efficient cross-linking reaction without supplemental oxygen.”

One of the key highlights of the EpiSmart protocol is its efficiency. Dr. Beckman remarked, “one interesting thing about the ultraviolet light – this device has a double head, so you can do bilateral treatment.” Altogether, with preparation, riboflavin saturation, and illumination, both eyes can be treated simultaneously in about 50 minutes. 

Lastly, Dr. Beckman left his audience with a summary of the excellent results from CXL-005, CXLO’s Phase II study. “Excellent results again,” he said. 80% of patients experienced stable or improved vision, and an impressive 89% of young patients aged 21 or less achieved stable or improved vision.

CXLO's EpiSmart protocol offers a promising new approach to treating corneal ectasia, and Dr. Ken Beckman's presentation at the ASCRS conference has underscored its potential to revolutionize the field of ophthalmology.

About CXL Ophthalmics

CXLO is developing a minimally-invasive treatment for ectatic corneal disease that can bring early intervention to millions of patients globally. Our EpiSmart approach is a transformative cross-linking system designed to treat keratoconus without disrupting the epithelium, allowing for a rapid return to normal activities.

For more information, please visit www.cxlophthalmics.com.