Myopia control using toric orthokeratology (TO-SEE study)

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Pediatric Eye Care

Background:

• Myopia control is crucial in children to prevent high myopia complications.
• Astigmatism often coexists with myopia, complicating treatment options.
• Orthokeratology (ortho-k) is a known method for myopia control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of toric orthokeratology (ortho-k) in controlling myopia progression.
• To assess the impact of toric ortho-k on axial elongation in myopic children with moderate-to-high astigmatism.

Main Methods:

• A nonrandomized clinical study involving 80 children (aged 6-12) with myopia and astigmatism.
• Participants were divided into a toric ortho-k group (43) and a control group (37).
• Data including axial length, refraction, and corneal topography were collected over 24 months.

Main Results:

• Both groups showed axial elongation, but the ortho-k group had significantly less.
• Average axial elongation was 0.31 mm in the ortho-k group versus 0.64 mm in the control group.
• Axial elongation was 52% slower in the ortho-k group, correlated with age and treatment.

Conclusions:

• Toric ortho-k lenses are effective in slowing axial elongation in myopic children with moderate-to-high astigmatism.
• This suggests toric ortho-k is a viable option for myopia management in this pediatric population.