Hydrogel contact lens cleaning with or without multi-enzymes. A prospective study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Hydrogel contact lenses are widely used but prone to deposit accumulation.
• Deposits can lead to discomfort and serious eye complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of weekly enzymatic cleaning in reducing hydrogel contact lens deposits.
• To assess the impact of enzymatic cleaning on lens performance and wearer comfort.

Main Methods:

• 66 daily hydrogel contact lens wearers participated.
• Lenses underwent daily cleaning/disinfection and weekly enzymatic cleaning with a pancreatin preparation.
• Deposit levels, break-up time (BUT), and comfort were assessed over 6 months.

Main Results:

• Enzymatically cleaned lenses showed significantly fewer deposits (P < 0.001).
• Enzymatic cleaning resulted in longer lens break-up time (P < 0.001).
• Subjective comfort was significantly improved with enzymatic cleaning (P < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• Weekly enzymatic cleaning is effective in reducing hydrogel contact lens deposits.
• This cleaning regimen enhances lens performance and wearer comfort.
• Enzymatic cleaning may reduce the risk of contact lens-related complications.