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Fitting the SoftPerm contact lens after keratoplasty
1Vision Research Laboratory, Sharp Cabrillo Hospital and Eye Care of La Jolla, CA.
Summary
The SoftPerm lens improved vision in most post-keratoplasty patients with high astigmatism. This rigid gas permeable lens offers better acuity than spectacles for select cases.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Surgery
- Optometry
Background:
- Keratoplasty (corneal transplant) can result in significant astigmatism.
- Potential acuity meter (PAM) testing predicts visual potential after refractive correction.
- Spectacle correction may be insufficient for high astigmatism post-keratoplasty.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of the SoftPerm lens in patients with high astigmatism after keratoplasty.
- To determine visual acuity outcomes and lens-wearing success rates.
Main Methods:
- 22 eyes (20 patients) with post-keratoplasty astigmatism and PAM results exceeding spectacle best-corrected visual acuity were fitted with SoftPerm lenses.
- Lens wear duration and visual acuity were assessed.
- Reasons for lens failure were recorded.
Main Results:
- 19 of 22 eyes achieved better visual acuity with SoftPerm lenses than with spectacles alone.
- 14 eyes had pre-existing astigmatism greater than 4 D.
- 14 lenses were worn successfully for over 3 months.
Conclusions:
- The SoftPerm lens is a viable option for improving visual acuity in post-keratoplasty patients with high astigmatism.
- Lens separation and handling issues were primary causes of failure.
- SoftPerm lenses should be considered for high astigmatism cases with good potential acuity.