Lens Fitting Research Articles

International trends in prescribing multifocal and monovision soft contact lenses to correct presbyopia (2000–2023): An update

PurposeNumerous multifocal soft contact lenses have been introduced into clinical practice over the past half century. The purpose of this work is to update earlier surveys by describing international trends in multifocal and monovision soft lens fitting for presbyopia between 2000–2023, inclusive. MethodAn annual contact lens prescribing survey was sent to eye care practitioners in up to 71 countries between 2000–2023. Data relating to 52,580 soft daily wear lens fits to presbyopes (those ≥45 years of age) undertaken in 20 countries returning reliable longitudinal data were analysed in respect of multifocal and monovision soft daily wear lens fits. ResultsOverall, multifocal and monovision soft daily wear lens prescribing to presbyopes has more than doubled over the course of this survey, from 26.4 % of standard soft daily wear lens fits in 2000 to 61.1 % in 2023 (p < 0.0001). There were significant differences between countries in presbyopia soft daily wear lens prescribing (p < 0.0001). Of all soft daily wear fits to males, 45.1 % were multifocal and monovision soft lenses, compared with 52.7 % for females (p < 0.0001). When considered as the proportion of lenses fitting by age, multifocal soft lens fitting peaked between 50–65 years, followed by a precipitous drop until 85–90 years of age, and then an increase beyond 90 years of age. Analysis of 13,014 recent soft lens fits to presbyopes (2019–2023) revealed the following fitting proportions: multifocal lenses – 51 %; monovision – 10 %; and non-presbyopia fitting – 39 %. ConclusionThere has been a substantial increase in soft contact lens correction of presbyopia using multifocal and monovision corrections throughout the 24 years of this survey. A significant number of soft contact lens-wearing presbyopes are not receiving a presbyopia contact lens correction.

Kongenitale Katarakt und Pseudophakie – Myopiekontrolle in einer ungewöhnlichen Ausgangssituation

Purpose. An effective reduction in the progression of myopia can be achieved by pharmacological administration of low-dose atropine eye drops, the fitting of multifocal and Ortho-K contact lenses or with specialized spectacle lenses. The case report describes the successful stabilization of myopia and visual acuity in a 14-year-old patient who had a posterior chamber IOL implanted at the age of 2 as a result of a congenital cataract. Material and Methods. A 14-year-old untreated patient with pseudophakia after congenital cataract, was fitted with multifocal rigid-gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses for high myopia, irregular astigmatism, anisometropia and nystagmus to increase visual acuity and prevent myopia progression. Results. With the fitted contact lenses, good lenses tolerance was achieved with a daily wearing time of 12 hours and an increase of visual acuity from spectacle-corrected visual acuity (20/160) to contact lens-corrected visual acuity (20/40) and stabilization of myopia over 3.5 years. With the contact lenses in combination with progressive spectacles, it was possible to achieve an additional increase in near vision and successful treatment of the patient. With her new quality of life, the patient can now complete school education independently and start an apprenticeship. Conclusion. Pseudophakic children with high myopia and astigmatism can also be successfully fitted with multifocal contact lenses with the aim of increasing visual acuity and stabilizing myopia.

Anpassung einer formstabilen Irisprint-Kontaktlinse nach Trauma durch Schraubendreher

Purpose. This case report describes the successful fitting of a rigid gas permeable iris print contact lens to partially restore iris function, reduce photophobia and correct irregular astigmatism following a screwdriver injury. Material and Methods. Based on corneal topography and diagnostic lenses, a customized limbal fitted back and peripheral toric contact lens with iris print was used. The contact lens fitting was performed using fluorescein pattern interpretation and various fitting steps. Results. The fitted iris print contact lens lens reduced photophobia, corrected the irregular astigmatism, re-established the esthetic appearance of the eye and provided a visual acuity of 20/25. The patient was able to successfully return to his job as a train driver. Conclusion. Lens geometry and lens diameter resulted in a very good centration, stabilization and fit of the lens. Together with the irisprint, an excellent visual and satisfactory esthetic rehabilitation was achieved in the patient.

Role of optic zone diameter in scleral lens fitting in traumatic aniridia with scarred cornea – A case report

Scleral lenses (SLs) are large-diameter rigid gas-permeable lenses that vault over the entire cornea and rest on the bulbar conjunctiva overlying the sclera and maintain a fluid reservoir, which along with the rigidity of the lens masks irregular astigmatism and reduces the aberrations. A 20-year-old male had decreased vision, photophobia, and double vision due to an open globe injury with a shuttle bat 1 year back, followed by which he underwent corneal tear repair and multiple retinal surgeries. He was advised for penetrating keratoplasty elsewhere and came for a second opinion. Based on a diagnostic fitting approach, an 18.5 mm diameter SL was applied on the right eye, with which vision improved from 6/60, N36@ 10 cm to 6/7.5 and reduced the higher-order aberrations but a slightly higher vault was observed. Therefore, a 16.5 mm diameter SL was applied but with this lens, vision decreased to 6/12 with effort, and in both lenses, the patient reported binocular diplopia. Therefore, a combination of management, larger optic zone SLs, and a Fresnel prism was prescribed, which improved the patient’s vision, and reduced diplopia. The purpose of the case report is to emphasize the role of optic zone diameter in SL fitting, particularly in cases of traumatic scarred cornea with eccentric pupils and the importance of co-management.

Size Matters: A Comparative Study on Midday Fogging and Lens Settling in Patients With Keratoconus Wearing Mini-Scleral Lenses With Two Different Diameters

Purpose: The objective of this study was to compare the changes in postlens fluid optical density, timing and quantity of lens settling, and the clinical performance between two different mini-scleral lenses. Methods: Seventeen eyes of 10 patients with keratoconus were fitted with a 15-mm mini-scleral lens (AirKone Scleral Lenses; Laboratoire LCS, Normandy, France), and 15 eyes of 10 patients with keratoconus were fitted with 16.5-mm mini-scleral lenses (Misa Lenses; Microlens Contactlens Technology, Arnhem, The Netherlands). The lens fit was evaluated with biomicroscopy and anterior segment optical coherence tomography (AS-OCT). At 0, 2, and 4 hrs, corneal clearances were measured with AS-OCT, and optical density measurements were made by Scheimpflug tomography. High-contrast visual acuity (HCVA) and contrast sensitivity (CS) were assessed at each time point. At the end of the 4th hour, participants' comfort, visual quality, and general satisfaction were evaluated with a 5-point Likert scale and 100-mm Visual Analog Scale (VAS) scale. Results: The mean age (24.4 ± 5.4 vs. 21.7 ± 4.5, P = 0.145) and best spectacle-corrected HCVA (0.36 ± 0.15 vs. 0.35 ± 0.20, P = 0.984) were similar in both groups. The mean Snellen HCVA significantly improved with dispensing both mini-scleral lenses and remained stable at 4 hrs in both groups. In comparison, CS significantly decreased at 4 hrs in both groups (P = 0.02). Both groups' optical density significantly increased over time (P = 0.003). In the 15-mm mini-scleral lens group, the settling amount was 62.2 ± 11.9 μm (62.6%) and 99.5 ± 14.2 μm (100%) at 2 and 4 hrs, respectively; in the 16.5-mm mini-scleral lens group, it was 46.4 ± 22.3 μm (56.4%) and 82.1 ± 37.3 μm (100%) at 2 and 4 hrs, respectively. More than 50% of settling occurred in the first 2 hrs in both groups. No significant difference was observed between the two groups with regard to visual acuity, CS, optical density, and total settling amount at 4 hrs (P &gt; 0.05). Patient in the 15-mm mini-scleral lens group scored higher in comfort (4.65 ± 0.7 vs. 3.60 ± 0.9), visual quality (4.76 ± 0.4 vs. 3.73 ± 0.7), and overall satisfaction (95.7 ± 6.0 vs. 65.3 ± 20.3) (P &lt; 0.0001). Conclusion: Patients reported a heightened level of contentment with the smaller-diameter lens; however, it is crucial to emphasize that both diameter scleral lenses showcase comparable clinical efficacy, midday fogging, and settling.

Corneal Refractive Surgery Considerations in Patients With History of Orthokeratology.

To review the current literature describing corneal changes observed with orthokeratology (ortho-k) use and to formulate preliminary recommendations for these patients seeking corneal refractive surgery. The literature search was conducted through the PubMed, Scopus, and Ovid databases through June 4, 2024, for articles regarding corneal physiological, tomographic, and biomechanical changes secondary to ortho-k use. Forty-one articles were found describing several changes associated with ortho-k use, including higher corneal staining, central corneal epithelial thinning and midperipheral thickening, increased higher-order aberrations, decreased contrast sensitivity, reduced corneal hysteresis and corneal resistance factor, and alterations in the tear proteome. The majority of these parameters returned to baseline after ortho-k lens discontinuation, with timing potentially dependent on the amount of myopic correction, duration of ortho-k use, and age of lens fitting. Despite the paucity of articles describing prior ortho-k patients undergoing corneal refractive surgery, it is evident that ortho-k use may potentially cause various corneal physiological, tomographic, and biomechanical changes in patients. Therefore, clinicians are advised to serially monitor ortho-k patients' refraction, tomography, pachymetry, and corneal biomechanics until stability is achieved before considering surgery.

Corneal elevation asymmetry vector: Viable predictor of severe one-year-averaged orthokeratology lens decentration

BackgroundTo assess the predictive value of pretreatment corneal elevation asymmetry vector (CEAV) for severe orthokeratology (Ortho-k) lens decentration (LD) in Chinese myopic adolescents. MethodsA retrospective analysis of 247 myopic participants over one year employed a novel MATLAB algorithm to calculate CEAV and precise LD vector. Subjects were categorized into mild (<1 mm) and severe (≥1 mm) yearly averaged LD (YALD) groups. Logistic regression and ROC analysis evaluated the relationship between corneal parameters and severe YALD. ResultsLD reached stability within the first month, with severe YALD compromising visual quality and corneal health. Notably, univariate linear regression revealed a paradoxical correlation between axial length elongation (ALE) and YALD: ALE negatively correlated with YALD in the mild group (standardised β = -0.546, P < 0.05), contrasting with a positive correlation in the severe group (standardised β = 0.599, P < 0.05). Horizontal CEAV (standardised β = − 0.237, < 0.05) and curvature differences between nasal and temporal quadrants at 8 mm (KTN) (standardised β = 0.227, P < 0.01) significantly correlated with horizontal YALD, while vertical CEAV vector associated with vertical YALD (standardised β = − 0.237, < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified CEAV as an independent predictor of severe YALD (OR = 3.145, 95 % CI: 1.334 ∼ 4.607, P < 0.01). Other risk factors included larger horizontal visible iris diameter (HVID) (OR = 2.430, 95 % CI:0.6136 ∼ 10.07, P < 0.05), corneal astigmatism (CA) (OR = 1.506, 95 % CI: 1.017 ∼ 2.244, P < 0.05), and KTN (OR = 1.864, 95 % CI: 0.934 ∼ 3.864, P < 0.05). CEAV magnitude alone predicted severe YALD with AUC = 0.698 (95 %CI: 0.615–0.783, P < 0.001), improving to AUC = 0.732 (95 % CI: 0.660–0.805, P < 0.001) when combined with other risk factors. ConclusionsPretreatment CEAV may emerge as a viable predictor of severe Ortho-k YALD, warranting its consideration in further tailored lens fitting to improve outcomes.

EVALUATING THE LEARNING CURVE OF A NOVICE OPTOMETRY STUDENT IN SCLERAL LENS FITTING: A PROSPECTIVE QUANTITATIVE STUDY USING DELIBERATE PRACTICE AND CUMULATIVE SUMMATION (LC-CUSUM)

Background and Objective: To evaluate the learning curve of a novice optometry student in scleral lens fitting through deliberate practice and to objectively quantify the learning process using the LearningCurve-Cumulative Summation (LC-CUSUM) test, ensuring accurate and unbiased results. Method: The complexity of scleral contact lens fittings was assessed by categorizing subjects into regular and irregular cornea groups. A student enrolled in the Master of Optometry program conducted the fittings using a dedicated scleral lens record form (rubrics) designed to quantify the lens management approach. Prior to performing fittings independently, the student received four weeks of training from a contact lens expert, who also served as her guide for the study. This training period and the subsequent fittings were structured based on the principles of deliberate practice, with the student performing repeated diagnostic trials. A maximum of three diagnostic trials were performed for each subject to achieve the optimal fit. After each trial, the student completed a self-efficacy scale questionnaire to assess her perceived diffi-culty and clinical judgement skills, recording “FIRST trial scores” following the initial trial and ‘LAST trial scores’ after achieving the optimal fit. The guide consistently provided verbal feedback after each case throughout the fitting process as part of the deliberate practice methodology to enhance the student’s understanding of the fitting procedure while keeping the scores confidential to ensure unbiased self-as-sessment. Following the complete supervision of the fitting procedure, the guide evaluated the student’s clinical skills using a specially designed observation scale questionnaire, referred to as the ‘GUIDE scores.’ A seven-point Likert scale was used to rate the judgement for both the self-efficacy scale and observation scale questionnaire. The student’s LAST trial scores were subsequently compared with the GUIDE scores. Results: A total of 80 scleral lens fittings were evaluated. The Intraclass Correlation Coefficient (ICC) demonstrated excellent agreement between student-reported self-efficacy scores and guide-reported observation scores. The difference in self-efficacy scores between the initial and final lens fittings was statistically significant (p &lt; 0.05), as determined by the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. The Learning Curve-Cumulative Summation (LC-CUSUM) chart revealed that learning stabilized after 26 fittings, marking a consolidation phase where minimal further improvement was observed beyond this point, and additional practice primarily helped to maintain proficiency. The average number of trials required per eye was higher in patients with irregular corneas than those with regular corneas. Conclusion: This study evaluated the learning curve of a novice optometry student in scleral lens fitting through deliberate practice, utilizing the LC-CUSUM test to quantify progress and assess skill acquisition objectively. Proficiency was achieved after 26 fittings, with additional trials needed for irregular corneas, underscoring the influence of patient characteristics on learning. These findings emphasize the importance of structured training, personalized feedback, and self-assessment in developing clinical competence. The insights contribute to advancing education and research in contact lens science by providing practical guid-ance for designing effective programs focused on planning, teaching, and learning about scleral lens fittings.

Scleral lens fitting after paediatric limbal dermoid removal

Purpose. This case report describes the management of refractive error and amblyopia using a scleral lens fitted to the eye of a young child with an irregular cornea resulting from limbal dermoid removal and corneal transplant in infancy. Material and Methods. A young infant was initially fitted with spectacles and occlusion therapy following the surgical excision of a limbal dermoid and full thickness corneal transplant. The vision did not improve in spite of patching so the child was referred for contact lens fitting. Various iterations of scleral lens fitting were carried out. Results. Scleral lens fitting was attempted from the age of 2 years but transplant rejections, the COVID-19 pandemic and variable cooperation meant that adequate lens wear could not be achieved in the early stages. In addition, the corneal shape changed during the course of the fitting. During these periods, spectacle wear and occlusion therapy were maintained until a good lens fit could be achieved following several modifications. Treatment is ongoing but at the age of 5 years, the visual acuity is 0.24 logMAR letters. Conclusion. Scleral lenses can be used to habilitate the vision in an eye with an irregular cornea but when scleral lens wear is not possible, it is important to persevere with spectacle correction and patching therapy. Several iterations of scleral lenses may be needed as the eye changes and the child grows.

Referral Pattern and Comanagement of Patients With Keratoconus in West Africa: A Survey-Based Study of Optometrists in Ghana and Nigeria.

To investigate the referral and management patterns of patients with keratoconus among primary eye care practitioners in Ghana and Nigeria. A questionnaire adapted from previous studies was modified and created using Google Forms. The online survey was distributed to prospective participants using e-mails and other social media platforms. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Product and Service Solutions software (version 25.0; IBM Corp, Armonk, NY; Released 2017). One hundred and sixty-nine optometrists responded to the survey (61.54% from Nigeria and 38.46% from Ghana). Most (88.6%) practiced without corneal topographers. Most respondents (77.7%, n=136) reported not fitting rigid gas-permeable (RGP) contact lenses in a year and 68% were willing to refer for contact lens fitting to another practitioner. The major barriers to RGP fitting were lack of experience (44.4%, n=72), cost to practice (15.4%, n=25), and other reasons (12.4%), whereas 27.8% (n=45) preferred not to answer. Seventy-six percent of respondents (n=133) were willing to fit RGPs if the respondents received the training to do so. About half of the respondents (53.8%) reported progression of cornea signs as the reason for referral to an ophthalmologist. Half of the respondents (n=51.4%) did not have a cornea surgeon in the area the respondents practiced, and 76.3% reported not comanaging patients at all with ophthalmologists. This study highlights the current standard of care of patients with keratoconus in West Africa. The findings from this study suggest that clinical guidelines and further training of eye care practitioners in West Africa are needed to better manage patients with keratoconus.

Visual and ocular surface benefits of mini-scleral contact lenses in patients with chronic ocular graft-versus-host disease (GvHD)

Graft-versus-Host disease is a major complication of allogeneic stem cell transplantation. The eyes are a frequently affected organ with a severe dry eye disease being the hallmark manifestation. This retrospective study evaluates the effect of mini-scleral contact lenses on visual acuity, eye-related quality of life and the ocular surface. 62 eyes of 31 patients were included and visual acuity, ocular surface disease index (OSDI) questionnaire results and Oxford grades before and after mini-scleral lens fitting were compared. Median Snellen fraction with mini-scleral lenses was 20/25 (1st 20/30/3rd 20/20) compared to 20/40 median Snellen fraction with spectacles (1st 20/60/3rd 20/25). Median OSDI scores improved from 73 (1st 41.6/3rd 89) before fitting to 27 (1st 14.5/3rd 56) with mini-scleral lenses. Median Oxford grade decreased from 3 before mini-scleral lens fitting (1st 1/3rd 4.75) to 1 after mini-scleral lens fitting (1st 0/3rd 4). Median time of follow up was 717.5 days. Seven patients (22.6%) discontinued therapy with mini-scleral lenses. Mini-scleral lenses are beneficial for most patients with ocular GvHD as they improve visual acuity, eye-related quality of life and the integrity of the corneal epithelium.

An integrative predictive model for orthokeratology lens decentration based on diverse metrics.

To develop a predictive model for orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lens decentration 1 month after wear. This study included myopic children who were fitted with Ortho-K lenses at Fujian Provincial Hospital between December 2022 and May 2024. Corneal topography parameters and other relevant metrics were collected pre- and post-treatment. Feature selection was conducted using univariate logistic regression and Lasso regression analysis. A machine learning approach was used to develop multiple predictive models, including Decision Tree, Logistic Regression, Multilayer Perceptron, Random Forest, and Support Vector Machine. Model performance was evaluated using accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, ROC curves, DCA curves, and calibration curves. SHAP values were employed to interpret the models. The Logistic Regression model demonstrated the best predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.82 (95% CI: 0.69-0.95), accuracy of 77.59%, sensitivity of 85%, and specificity of 61.11%. The most significant predictors identified were age, 8 mm sag height difference, 5 mm Kx1, and 7 mm Kx2. SHAP analysis confirmed the importance of these features, particularly the 8 mm sag height difference. The Logistic Regression model successfully predicted the risk of Ortho-K lens decentration using key corneal morphological metrics and age. This model provides valuable support for clinicians in optimizing Ortho-K lens fitting strategies, potentially reducing the risk of adverse outcomes and improving the quality of vision for patients. Further validation in clinical settings is recommended.

Impact of Scleral Lenses on Visual Acuity and Ocular Aberrations in Corneal Ectasia: A Comprehensive Review.

Corneal ectasias, including keratoconus (KC), pellucid marginal degeneration (PMD), and post-LASIK ectasia, poses significant visual rehabilitation challenges due to the resultant irregular astigmatism, myopia, and higher-order aberrations (HOAs). These conditions often resist traditional corrective methods, necessitating advanced optical solutions. Scleral lenses (SLs) have emerged as a primary non-surgical option for managing these complex corneal irregularities. SLs form a smooth optical interface by forming a tear-filled chamber between the lens and the cornea, effectively mitigating HOAs and improving both high-contrast and low-contrast visual acuity (VA). This review evaluates the efficacy of SLs in enhancing VA and reducing aberrations in patients with corneal ectasia. It also explores the technological advancements in SLs, such as profilometry and wavefront-guided systems, which enable more precise and customized lens fittings by accurately mapping the eye's surface and addressing specific visual aberrations. The current body of evidence demonstrates that custom SLs significantly improve visual outcomes across various ectatic conditions, offering superior performance compared to conventional correction methods. However, challenges such as the complexity of fitting and the need for precise alignment remain. Ongoing innovations in SL technology and customization are likely to further enhance their clinical utility, solidifying their role as an indispensable tool in the management of corneal ectasias.

Acquired Ankyloblepharon Correction Using Ocular Surface and Tarsal Mucous Membrane Grafting in Cicatrizing Ocular Surface Diseases

Purpose: To report the long-term surgical outcomes of acquired ankyloblepharon correction using mucous membrane graft. Methods: Five eyes of 4 patients (median age, 19 years) with acquired ankyloblepharon were managed using eyelid splitting and mucous membrane graft anchored to the recti muscles on the bulbar surface in the respective quadrant and onto the bare tarsal surface. Outcome measures include a change in the palpebral fissure width, ability to fit scleral contact lenses, visual acuity, and cosmesis. Results: The underlying etiologies of ankyloblepharon were chronic Stevens-Johnson syndrome (n = 3), and chemical injury (n = 2). All 5 eyes had conjunctival shortening, and 3 had severe dry eyes (median Schirmer 4.5 mm). Four eyes had limbal stem cell deficiency. The median horizontal palpebral fissure width improved to 22 mm from 8 mm. This single-staged surgical technique allowed for fornix formation and prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem lens fitting in all 5 eyes. Median logMAR visual acuity improved from 2.1 to 0.7 following ankyloblepharon release, prosthetic replacement of the ocular surface ecosystem lens fitting in 4 eyes, and keratoprosthesis in 1 eye. Repeat mucous membrane graft for recurrent symblepharon in 1 quadrant was required in 2 eyes where complete 360 degrees bulbar and tarsal conjunctiva loss were present preoperatively. At the median follow-up period of 27 months, all patients reported better cosmesis and had no symblepharon recurrence following repeat surgery in 2 eyes and single surgery in 3 eyes. The donor site healed well without any complications. No mitomycin C or symblepharon ring was used. Conclusion: Ocular surface and adnexal reconstruction using bulbar and tarsal mucous membrane grafts help visually rehabilitate patients with acquired ankyloblepharon secondary to cicatrizing ocular surface disorders.

Multifocal contact lenses. Easy fitting algorithm and new possibilities in presbyopia correction with TOTAL30 Multifocal

Multifocal soft contact lenses are the fastest growth segment in contact lenses. While presbyopic patients demonstrate an increasing interest in contact lenses, not all practitioners actively integrate multifocal lenses into their practices. Some of the reasons include the perception that multifocal fitting is time-consuming and chances of successful adaptation of “ageing” patients are low. The purpose of this publication is to provide an overview of the latest multifocal contact lens, essential fitting steps and instruments for quick and effective multifocal lens fitting.

Changing indications for keratoplasty: monocentric analysis of the past two decades

Abstract Purpose Over the past two decades, lamellar keratoplasty procedures, such as Descemet's Stripping Automated Endothelial Keratoplasty (DSAEK) and Descemet's Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) as well as Deep Anterior Lamellar Keratoplasty (DALK), have become an integral part of clinical practice. With advances in contact lens fitting for keratoconus management and the implementation of UVA-Riboflavin Crosslinking (CXL), the landscape of keratoplasty indications is undergoing changes. Procedures and indications in a single tertiary care center over the past two decades are reviewed in this retrospective analysis. Methods: Retrospective analysis utilized anonymized electronic data from the LIONS cornea bank Baden-Württemberg, Eye Center Freiburg, spanning from beginning of 2004 to end of 2023. The primary focus was on surgical procedures and indications for keratoplasty. Results The study encompassed a comprehensive analysis of 7130 corneal transplants. Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) exhibited a significant decline from 95% (n = 206, 2004) to 11% (n = 46, 2023), while DMEK increased from 48% (n = 157, 2012) to 82% (n = 347, 2023). Fuchs endothelial dystrophy (FED) emerged as the dominant indication, witnessing a significant increase from 24% (2004, n = 39) to 72% (2023, n = 288). Conversely, keratoconus (KC) showed a reciprocal change from 25% (2004, n = 40) to 4% (2023, n = 17). PK demonstrated a noteworthy indication shift in descending order from Bullous Keratopathy (BK), FED, and KC in 2004 to KC, graft failure, corneal scars, and ulcers in 2023. Repeat keratoplasty following DMEK remained rare, but a discernible upward trend was observed for PK. Conclusion This retrospective analysis highlights significant changes in both keratoplasty indications and techniques over the past two decades. DMEK has emerged as a successful intervention for treating endothelial diseases, while PK retains its qualitative indispensability for a wide range of indications. Modern corneal banks are urged to maintain a robust supply of grafts for all surgical techniques in anticipation of potential increased demand in the future, particularly for repeat keratoplasties. Key messages What is known • Over the past two decades, lamellar keratoplasty procedures such as DSAEK and DMEK have increasingly replaced penetrating keratoplasty (PK) in clinical practice due to their improved outcomes and reduced complications for certain indications. New Findings • Our study reveals a significant shift in keratoplasty indications, with Fuchs endothelial dystrophy (FED) emerging as the predominant indication, increasing from 24% in 2004 to 72% in 2023, while keratoconus (KC) declined from 25 to 4% during the same period. • Penetrating keratoplasty (PK) has shown a marked decline in use, dropping from 95% of keratoplasties in 2004 to 11% in 2023, whereas DMEK has grown to represent 82% of procedures in 2023. • Despite the rise of DMEK, PK remains vital for a broad spectrum of indications, highlighting the necessity for corneal banks to maintain a versatile supply of grafts to meet diverse clinical needs, particularly in cases of repeat keratoplasties.

International trends in prescribing silicone hydrogel contact lenses for daily wear (2000–2023): An update

PurposeIntroduced around the turn of the 21st century, silicone hydrogel contact lenses alleviated hypoxic anterior eye complications due to their high oxygen transmissibility. The purpose of this work is to update earlier surveys by describing international trends in silicone hydrogel daily wear contact lens fitting between 2000 and 2023. MethodAn annual contact lens prescribing survey was sent to eye care practitioners in up to 71 countries between 2000 and 2023. Data relating to 260,144 daily wear soft contact lens fits undertaken in 20 countries returning reliable longitudinal data were analysed in respect of silicone hydrogel daily wear contact lens fitting. ResultsThere has been a dramatic increase in silicone hydrogel daily wear lens fits (p < 0.0001), increasing from 2.8 % of all daily wear soft lens fits in 2000 to 73.7 % in 2023. Of all daily wear soft contact lenses prescribed to males, 44.6 % were silicone hydrogel lenses, compared with 43.5 % for females (p = 0.0146). The mean age of those wearing silicone hydrogel daily wear lenses was 32.0 ± 14.5 years, compared to 30.4 ± 13.6 years for those wearing daily wear hydrogel lenses (p < 0.0001). Between 2019–2023, the average percentage of fits was – (a) material type: silicone hydrogel – 73 %; mid-water content hydrogels – 13 %; high water content hydrogels – 9 %; and low water content hydrogels – 5 %, and (b) lens design: spherical – 44 %, toric – 32 %, multifocal – 17 %, monovision – 4 %, and ‘other’ – 3 %. ConclusionThe dramatic increase in silicone hydrogel contact lens prescribing for daily wear has been commensurate with the introduction of multiple lens brands and an ongoing expansion of lens designs, parameters and replacement frequency options. The balance between silicone hydrogel and hydrogel lens prescribing is perhaps starting to approach an equilibrium.

Anpassung von Skleral-Kontaktlinsen bei Terrien‘s marginaler Hornhautdegeneration

Purpose. This case report describes the possible visual rehabilitation with scleral lenses of a patient with Terrien’s marginal degeneration with different degrees of progression between the right and left eye. Material and Methods. Scleral contact lenses were fitted with the help of corneal tomography and by observing and assessing the fit of measuring lenses. A slit lamp with a corresponding camera helped to modify the diagnostic lenses. Results. In this case, the fitting of scleral contact lenses resulted in an improvement in distance vision in both the right and left eye. Near vision could not be evaluated at the time of writing. Conclusion. Scleral contact lenses can be a good alternative to glasses for complex corneas to improve visual performance. It is recommended to use a slit lamp with a camera to make it easier to discuss scleral contact lenses modifications with the manufacturer of the lenses. Keywords: TERRIEN’S MARGINAL CORNEAL DEGENERATION, PELLUCIDE MARGINAL CORNEAL DEGENERATION, SCLERAL LENSES

Kontaktlinsenversorgung bei ausgeprägter Sicca bei vermuteter Alakrimie bei einem sechsjährigen Kind

Purpose. The aim of this case report is to describe a case of suspected alacrimia in a six-year-old child that resulted in irregular astigmatism with risk of amblyopia. A specialty contact lens fitting for visual rehabilitation was performed. Material and Methods. Different wearing modes (extended wear and daily wear) as well as contact lens types (soft silicone hydrogel contact lenses of different wearing rhythms, as well as rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses were fitted. Results. In this case, different contact lens types (soft and rigid contact lenses) could not achieve a satisfactory treatment result. However, a piggyback contact lens system with daily wear was a good treatment solution. Conclusion. Irregular astigmatism in children is always a high risk of amblyopia. For this reason, timely optical treatment for visual rehabilitation is a high priority. Sometimes it is necessary to combine different contact lenses and wearing modalities to achieve the best solution for a complex treatment situation. Keywords: ALACRIMIA, HYPOLACRIMIA, SICCA, IRREGULAR ASTIGMATISM, VISUAL REHABILITATION, AMBLYOPIA RISK

Scleral contact lens treatment for corneal contact lens intolerance after keratoplasty

Purpose. The aim of this case report is to describe the treatment of a 47-year-old man with scleral lenses due to intolerance of corneal contact lenses after keratoplasty as a result of keratoconus. Material and Methods. The initial examinations included visual acuity tests, slit lamp examination and detailed corneal topography using Keratograph 5M and Pentacam AXL Wave. Based on these measurements, scleral lenses were fitted to improve visual acuity and wearing comfort of the contact lenses. Results. The fitted scleral lenses were subjectively and objectively tolerated without complications the whole day. The visual acuity improved from 0.05 to 1.0 in the right eye and from 0.80p to 1.00 in the left eye. Conclusion. The fitting of scleral lenses offers many advantages over corneal lenses in cases of corneal ectasia or dry eyes. In this case, scleral lenses provided significantly improved visual results and comfort. Regular follow-up examinations were scheduled to ensure safe and complication-free vision with the contact lenses.