Name of the Procedure:

Fitting of Contact Lens for Treatment of Disease (Therapeutic Contact Lenses)

Summary

This procedure involves fitting a patient with contact lenses specifically designed to treat medical conditions of the eye. Therapeutic contact lenses are not just for vision correction but also serve as a treatment for diseases such as keratoconus, corneal ulcers, or severe dry eye. The supply of the prescribed lens is included as part of the procedure.

Purpose

Therapeutic contact lenses address various ocular diseases:

• Correct abnormal corneal shapes in conditions like keratoconus.
• Protect and allow healing of the cornea in cases of corneal ulcers or injuries.
• Provide relief and maintain moisture in patients with severe dry eye syndrome.

The aim is to improve patient comfort, facilitate healing, and potentially restore or preserve vision.

Indications

• Keratoconus or other corneal ectasias.
• Corneal ulcers or scarring.
• Severe dry eye syndrome unresponsive to other treatments.
• Post-surgical corneal healing.
• Pain relief from specific ocular surface diseases.

Preparation

• Patients may need to undergo a comprehensive eye examination including corneal topography.
• Any use of medications should be discussed with the eye care provider.
• Patients may need to avoid wearing other contact lenses for a specified period before fitting.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: An eye care professional evaluates the condition of the eye, using diagnostic tools like a slit lamp, corneal topography, and tear film assessment.
2. Lens Selection: Based on assessment, the appropriate type of therapeutic lens (e.g., scleral lens, soft bandage lens) is selected.
3. Trial Fitting: The selected lens is placed on the patient’s eye to assess fit and comfort.
4. Adjustments: Adjustments are made to the lens if needed, and the prescription is finalized.
5. Patient Education: The patient is educated on how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses.
6. Supply of Lenses: The prescribed therapeutic lenses are supplied to the patient.

Equipment used includes specialized diagnostic tools like topographers and fitting sets of trial lenses.

Duration

Typically, the fitting session may take about 30 minutes to an hour. Some complex cases may require multiple visits.

Setting

This procedure is usually performed in an outpatient eye clinic or optometrist’s office.

Personnel

• Optometrist or ophthalmologist specializing in contact lens fitting.
• Trained ophthalmic assistants or technicians.

Risks and Complications

• Discomfort or improper fit
• Risk of eye infections if lenses are not handled properly
• Possible allergic reactions to lens materials or solutions
• Corneal abrasions or edema with improper use

Benefits

• Relief from symptoms associated with ocular diseases.
• Enhanced healing of the cornea.

• Improved vision in cases where standard treatments are inadequate.

  Patients typically experience benefits within a few days to weeks, depending on the condition being treated.

Recovery

• Patients should follow care instructions for their lenses meticulously.
• Regular follow-up appointments are required to monitor eye health and lens fit.
• Prompt reporting of any discomfort, pain, or vision changes is critical.

Alternatives

• Prescription glasses for vision correction (limited in certain conditions)
• Surgical interventions like corneal transplants
• Non-surgical treatments like lubricating eye drops or medications

Advantages of therapeutic lenses include non-invasiveness and specific customization to the patient's condition, whereas surgical interventions might provide more permanent solutions but come with higher risks.

Patient Experience

Patients may experience initial discomfort as they get accustomed to the lenses. Lubricating drops can help relieve dry eye discomfort. Pain management typically involves over-the-counter pain relievers if needed. Overall, with proper guidance and adherence to care instructions, patients often find therapeutic lenses significantly improve their quality of life.