Effects of microwave irradiation on the parameters of hydrogel contact lenses

Ten brands of hydrogel contact lenses were selected from five of the six British Approved Name lens classification groups to test in vitro the effects of repeated heat disinfection by means of microwave irradiation. Each lens type was tested over a number of cycles corresponding to its scheduled number of wearing days. The total diameter and back vertex power of all 80 test and 12 control lenses were measured at the end of their relevant cycling period. The back optic zone radius, center thickness, and water content were measured for 40 test and 8 control lenses. No clinically significant change was found in any of the 10 brands tested. Statistically significant changes were found in the back optic zone radius of the Frequency 55 group and water content of the Precision UV group. Some discoloration was noted in Ciba Visitint lenses.