Myopia of Prematurity: Reduced Progression Using Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target (HALT) Technology

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Ophthalmology
• Myopia Research

Background:

• Myopia of prematurity (MOP) is a distinct refractive error in premature infants, distinct from school-age myopia.
• MOP increases the risk of high myopia and lifelong complications.
• Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a common complication in premature infants that can be associated with MOP.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Highly Aspherical Lenslet Target (HALT) technology in managing MOP progression.
• To compare MOP progression in children using HALT lenses versus conventional single-vision lenses.
• To assess the impact of HALT lenses on spherical equivalent (SE) and axial length (AL) in children with MOP.

Main Methods:

• A comparative study involving 58 preterm children diagnosed with MOP.
• Two groups were formed: one using HALT lenses and the other using standard single-vision lenses for 12 months.
• Spherical equivalent (SE) and axial length (AL) were measured to track myopia progression.

Main Results:

• Children using HALT lenses showed significantly lower SE progression (-0.32 D) and AL elongation (0.12 mm) compared to the standard lens group (-0.93 D and 0.46 mm, p < 0.0001) at 12 months.
• The HALT group demonstrated a marked reduction in myopia progression indicators.
• A statistically significant difference (p < 0.0001) was observed between the two groups.

Conclusions:

• HALT lens technology appears to reduce the progression of myopia of prematurity (MOP).
• These findings suggest HALT lenses may be a beneficial intervention for high-risk pediatric myopia.
• Further research into HALT technology for specific high-risk subgroups is warranted to mitigate severe myopia and visual impairment risks.