Name of the Procedure:

Fitting of Contact Lens for Management of Keratoconus, Initial Fitting

• Common Names: Contact Lens Fitting for Keratoconus, Specialty Contact Lens Fitting
• Medical Terms: Keratoconus Contact Lens Fitting, Contact Lens for Corneal Ectasia

Summary

In this procedure, an optometrist or ophthalmologist fits a patient with keratoconus with special contact lenses designed to improve vision and comfort. Keratoconus causes the cornea to thin and bulge into a cone-like shape, distorting vision. The goal is to find the best type of contact lens that addresses the patient's specific needs.

Purpose

• Medical Condition: Keratoconus
• Goals/Outcomes: Improve vision clarity, reduce visual distortions, and enhance overall eye comfort.

Indications

• Progressive thinning and bulging of the cornea causing visual distortions.
• Difficulty in achieving clear vision with standard glasses or contact lenses.
• Symptoms such as blurry vision, glare, and light sensitivity.

Preparation

• Pre-procedure eye examination to assess the extent of keratoconus.
• May require diagnostic tests like corneal topography to map the curvature of the cornea.
• No specific fasting or medication adjustments, but patients should bring any current eyewear.

Procedure Description

1. Initial Assessment: Detailed eye exam and corneal measurements.
2. Lens Selection: Based on measurements, special keratoconus contact lenses (e.g., rigid gas permeable lenses, hybrid lenses, or scleral lenses) are chosen.
3. Lens Trial: Patient tries different lenses to find the best fit and comfort.
4. Adjustment: Lenses are adjusted for optimal vision and comfort.
5. Instruction: Patient is taught how to insert, remove, and care for the lenses.

• Tools: Keratometer, corneal topographer, trial contact lenses.
• Anesthesia: Usually not required, but numbing drops may be used for comfort during measurements.

Duration

The fitting process typically takes 1 to 2 hours.

Setting

Performed in an outpatient clinic or an optometry/ophthalmology practice.

Personnel

• Optometrist or Ophthalmologist
• Optometry Technician (optional)

Risks and Complications

• Common Risks: Discomfort, irritation, difficulty in adapting to lenses.
• Rare Risks: Corneal infections, allergic reactions, corneal abrasions.
• Management: Adjustments to lens fit, proper hygiene and care routines, and prompt medical attention if infections or severe discomfort occur.

Benefits

• Expected Benefits: Significantly improved visual clarity, reduced visual distortions, and enhanced quality of life.
• Timeline: Benefits are often noticed immediately, with full adaptation over a few days to weeks.

Recovery

• Post-procedure Care: Regular cleaning and proper handling of contact lenses.
• Recovery Time: Minimal, as patients can usually resume normal activities immediately.
• Restrictions: Adherence to care instructions to prevent infections.
• Follow-up: Regular check-ups to monitor fit and eye health.

Alternatives

• Other Options: Glasses with special prescriptions, corneal collagen cross-linking, Intacs corneal implants, corneal transplant in severe cases.
• Pros and Cons: Glasses may not provide adequate vision correction; surgical options have longer recovery and higher risks but can provide long-term solutions.

Patient Experience

• During Procedure: Some discomfort during the fitting process, but manageable.
• After Procedure: Slight initial discomfort and adaptation period when first using new lenses.
• Pain Management: Over-the-counter lubricating eye drops can alleviate initial discomfort. Adherence to care instructions enhances comfort and reduces risks.