Orthokeratology

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Orthokeratology - Shaping Sight Overnight

  • Definition: Non-surgical, reversible corneal reshaping using custom rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses worn overnight.
  • Goal: Temporary correction of myopia (typically up to -6.00 D) and astigmatism (up to -1.75 D).
  • Mechanism:
    • Reverse-geometry lenses apply gentle hydraulic pressure.
    • Central cornea flattens; mid-peripheral cornea steepens.

    ⭐ Mechanism involves central corneal epithelial thinning and mid-peripheral stromal/epithelial thickening due to hydraulic forces under the lens.

  • Indications:
    • Myopia control in children (slows progression).
    • Adults desiring spectacle/daytime contact lens freedom.
  • Key Points:
    • Effect lasts 1-2 days; requires nightly wear.
    • ⚠️ Risk: Microbial keratitis (requires strict hygiene).

Orthokeratology - Ideal Eyes & No-Goes

⭐ Typically effective for myopia up to -6.00 D and with-the-rule astigmatism up to -1.75 D.

Ideal Eyes (Indications)No-Goes (Contraindications)
* Low to moderate myopia (≤ -6.00 D)* High myopia (> -6.00 D) or hyperopia
* With-the-rule astigmatism (≤ -1.75 D)* Irregular astigmatism, keratoconus
* Children & adolescents (myopia progression)* Active ocular inflammation or infection
* Adults seeking spectacle/surgery alternative* Significant corneal disease (e.g., dystrophy)
* Active lifestyles, athletes* Poor patient hygiene or low compliance
* Patients with mild dry eye symptoms* Unrealistic visual or lifestyle expectations
* Highly motivated and compliant individuals* Systemic diseases impacting corneal health

Orthokeratology - The Reshaping Masters

  • Goal: Temporary corneal reshaping (myopia, astigmatism) using specially designed rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses.
  • Mechanism: Overnight wear of reverse geometry lenses flattens central cornea, steepens mid-periphery.
    • Corrects myopia typically up to -6.00 D, astigmatism up to -1.75 D.
  • Lens Design: Reverse geometry with specific zones.
    • Zones: Central (treatment/optic zone), Reverse curve, Alignment curve(s), Peripheral curve. Ortho-K lens zones and ideal fluorescein pattern
  • Fitting Assessment:
    • Corneal topography: Essential for baseline and monitoring changes.
    • Fluorescein pattern:

      ⭐ A "bull's-eye" fluorescein pattern (central touch/bearing, mid-peripheral clearance, peripheral alignment) is crucial for successful fitting.

  • Key Benefits: Spectacle-free daytime vision, potential for myopia control in children.
  • Primary Risks: Microbial keratitis (requires strict hygiene), corneal staining, epithelial defects. Effect is reversible upon discontinuation.

Orthokeratology - Perks, Pitfalls & Pointers

  • Perks (Outcomes & Benefits):

    • Temporary myopia reduction (e.g., up to -6.00 D) & astigmatism (e.g., up to -1.75 D).
    • Spectacle/contact lens-free daytime vision.
    • Potential for myopia progression control in children.
    • Reversible upon discontinuation.
  • Pitfalls (Risks):

    • ⭐ Increased risk of microbial keratitis, especially with Pseudomonas aeruginosa, is a significant concern requiring strict hygiene and compliance.

    • Corneal epitheliopathy (staining, erosions).
    • Lens decentration or adherence.
    • Visual disturbances: glare, haloes, monocular diplopia (often transient).
    • Higher cost & demanding compliance.
  • Pointers (Ongoing Management):

    • Emphasize strict lens hygiene (hand washing, no tap water) & care regimens (e.g., peroxide-based systems).
    • Regular follow-up is crucial for monitoring corneal health and refractive effect: 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, then 6-monthly.
    • Promptly manage complications: lens adjustments for decentration; lubricants or temporary discontinuation for mild staining.

High‑Yield Points - ⚡ Biggest Takeaways

  • Ortho-K involves overnight wear of reverse-geometry RGP lenses.
  • It achieves temporary myopia correction by central corneal flattening.
  • A key application is myopia control in children, slowing progression.
  • Corneal changes are completely reversible after stopping lens use.
  • Microbial keratitis is the most serious complication; strict hygiene is vital.
  • Corneal topography is essential for fitting and follow-up.
  • Best for low-to-moderate myopia (up to -6D) and some astigmatism.

Practice Questions: Orthokeratology

Test your understanding with these related questions

A young boy who used to wash his contact lenses in tap water or with unhygienic lens fluid developed keratitis. Microscopy revealed an organism with spiked or star-shaped structures. Identify the correct organism responsible.

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Flashcards: Orthokeratology

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Orthokeratology is used for treatment of _____

TAP TO REVEAL ANSWER

Orthokeratology is used for treatment of _____

myopia (hypermetropia/myopia)

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