Contact lenses and corneal shields.

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Corneal Disease
• Contact Lens Technology

Background:

• Contact lens wear is linked to various corneal complications.
• Disposable contact lenses have not resolved the issue of corneal ulcers with extended wear.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate alternatives to soft contact lenses for extended wear.
• To discuss the role of collagen corneal shields in managing ocular surface conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of literature on contact lens-related corneal complications.
• Analysis of the efficacy of rigid gas-permeable lenses for extended wear.
• Investigation of collagen corneal shields as indicators and inhibitors of collagenase activity.

Main Results:

• Extended wear of soft contact lenses continues to pose a risk for corneal ulcers.
• Rigid, gas-permeable extended-wear lenses present a potential alternative.
• Collagen corneal shields indicate collagenase activity and can act as inhibitors.

Conclusions:

• Rigid gas-permeable lenses may be a safer option for extended wear compared to soft lenses.
• Collagen corneal shields have a dual role in ocular surface management related to collagenase.