Case Report: Remote Scleral Lens Fitting for High Toric Scleras in a Keratoconus Patient

Technology plays a crucial role in customizing scleral lenses and improving lens alignment, especially in challenging scleral shapes. In addition, remote fitting technology allows optometrists to extend their expertise globally, empowering patients to access to customized lenses without travel expenses.

The objective of this study was to document the difficulties encountered in fitting a scleral lens in a patient with keratoconus and pronounced scleral toricity. In addition, the study aimed to present the successful remote fitting achieved by using advanced technology.

An Irish male patient diagnosed with keratoconus exhibited high scleral toricity. Generally, keratoconus eyes often exhibit significant scleral asymmetry associated with cone decentration and disease severity. Improperly aligned scleral lenses can lead to regional changes in scleral shape, lens decentration, discomfort, and visual disturbances. Indeed, previous scleral lens fits were unsuccessful because of these issues. Corneoscleral profilometry was acquired in Ireland and then used in Italy to design customized lenses, which were then delivered to the patient's optometrist in Ireland. The first lenses designed and delivered demonstrated excellent overall performance without requiring adjustments.

This report highlights the importance of corneoscleral profilometry to increase efficiency and reduce lens reorders and chair time, and the remote fitting in overcoming barriers to accessing specialized lens fitting.