Vance Thompson Vision Contributes to FDA Approval of Corneal Crosslinking for treating Keratoconus

FARGO, N.D., Oct. 10, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Vance Thompson Vision, a leader in ophthalmology and refractive surgery in South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa is thrilled to be one of the country's first to provide Avedro's Crosslinking System (KXL) for the treatment of progressive keratoconus. The announcement follows the United States Food and Drug Administration's recent approval of the KXL system, which is the first approved therapeutic treatment available for patients affected by keratoconus, a progressive disease affecting the cornea.

The FDA approval follows results of clinical trials demonstrating stabilization of the cornea within three to twelve months after crosslinking. As one of the research study sites and the first center to perform the procedure in North Dakota, Vance Thompson Vision worked closely with the FDA and Avedro to assist in the clinical investigation of the KXL system. "After years of research and development, we are excited to see this technology receive approval and provide keratoconus patients with first-time access to a reliable solution," said Dr. Vance Thompson. "Avedro's crosslinking system is a significant advancement for the keratoconus community, and our team is proud to have played a key role in its development."

Dr. Michael Greenwood of Vance Thompson Vision in Fargo states, "keratoconus has long been a frustrating condition for providers like us. The only real options have been limited to specialty contact lenses or small rings inserted into the cornea to enhance corneal stability."

This is because keratoconus is a corneal disease that occurs when the normally round shaped cornea progressively thins, causing a cone-like bulge to develop. Patients affected by the condition experience reduced visual acuity, with symptoms worsening as the disease progresses. "Patients with keratoconus have long suffered the devastating affects of the condition. Until now their treatment options have been limited to minimizing the symptoms, but not stopping the progression of the disease. Vance Thompson Vision is delighted to now have the technology to provide a solution to patients affected by this condition," says Dr. John Berdahl, Corneal, Cataract, and Glaucoma surgeon at Vance Thompson Vision who also participated in the clinical trial. "To date, this technology is the only viable option that has the ability to slow or even stop the progression of the disease."

Now that the technology is FDA approved patients have access to the technology. Patients can call Vance Thompson Vision to schedule a consultation to determine if corneal cross-linking is the most appropriate option for them. The initial consultation may submitted to insurance.

About Vance Thompson Vision
Vance Thompson Vision, Sioux Falls, SD and Fargo, ND, is a world-class refractive surgery center and research institute. Vance Thompson Vision provides and participates in developing the world's most exceptional technologies to improve outcomes in surgical care; all while creating a patient experience that is second to none. With more than 100,000 procedures, more than 80 FDA monitored clinical trials, and having traveled the world to advance the learning of providers everywhere, Vance Thompson Vision is the standard in quality and innovation. For more information on the international reputation of the doctors that lead studies such as this one visit the biographies of Dr. Vance Thompson, Dr. Alison Tendler, Dr. John Berdahl, Dr. Michael Greenwood, Dr. Doug Wallin, Dr. Keith Rasmussen, Dr. Justin Schweitzer, Dr. Jason Schmit, and Dr. Mitch Ibach.

Contact:
Matt Jensen
CEO: Sioux Falls, SD
(605) 371-7120 / [email protected]

SOURCE Vance Thompson Vision

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