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Contact lenses and eye closure: comparative analysis using three different methods to induce corneal swelling
M T Staarmann1, J P Schoessler
1College of Optometry, Ohio State University, Columbus.
Summary
Overnight closed-eye contact lens wear methods do not significantly impact corneal swelling. However, 3-hour wear causes less swelling than overnight wear, with results varying by lens oxygen transmissibility.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Corneal Physiology
- Contact Lens Technology
Background:
- Corneal swelling is a known complication of closed-eye contact lens wear.
- Understanding how measurement methods affect swelling is crucial for accurate research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if different methods of inducing closed-eye corneal swelling influence the measured results.
- To compare overnight vs. shorter-duration closed-eye corneal swelling.
Main Methods:
- A randomized, double-masked study involving 12 experienced rigid lens wearers.
- Three measurement conditions: overnight wear (taped and untaped eyes) and 3-hour wear.
- Optical pachymetry used to measure corneal swelling; various rigid gas-permeable (RGP) and soft lens types tested.
Main Results:
- Overnight corneal swelling was similar whether eyes were taped shut or not.
- 3-hour closed-eye corneal swelling was significantly lower than overnight swelling (p < 0.0001).
- Corneal swelling response was inversely related to the lens's equivalent oxygen percentage (EOP), with high intersubject variability.
Conclusions:
- Measurement methods for overnight closed-eye corneal swelling do not significantly alter outcomes.
- Shorter closed-eye wear durations result in less corneal swelling.
- Lens oxygen transmissibility (EOP) is a key factor in corneal swelling, alongside individual patient variability.