Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Daily Wear Specialty Contact Lens
Technical or Medical term: HCPCS S0512 - Daily Wear Specialty Contact Lens, per lens

Summary

Daily wear specialty contact lenses are custom-made lenses prescribed for specific eye conditions that cannot be accommodated by standard lenses. They are intended for daily use, typically removed and cleaned each night.

Purpose

Medical conditions/problems addressed:

• Corrective vision for complex refractive errors such as severe astigmatism or keratoconus.
• Therapeutic purposes, including the protection of the eye surface or delivery of medication.

Goals/expected outcomes:

• Improved vision clarity and comfort.
• Protection and healing of the eye surface.
• Increased quality of life through enhanced visual functioning.

Indications

Symptoms or conditions warranting the procedure:

• Irregular corneal shapes (e.g., keratoconus, post-surgical corneal irregularities).
• Severe dry eye syndrome.
• Post-surgical or traumatic eye injuries requiring corneal protection.

Patient criteria:

• Patients with vision issues that are not manageable with standard lenses.
• Patients who have been evaluated by an eye care specialist and confirmed to need specialty lenses.

Preparation

Pre-procedure instructions:

• An eye exam and fitting may be required.
• Patients should bring existing eyewear for comparison.
• No special fasting or medication adjustments usually needed.

Diagnostic tests/assessments:

• Detailed eye examination and corneal topography to map the eye’s surface.
• Visual acuity tests to measure current vision capabilities.

Procedure Description

Detailed steps:

1. Initial comprehensive eye exam and patient history review.
2. Corneal topography to measure the shape and condition of the cornea.
3. Lens fitting trial to determine the most suitable lens type and parameters.
4. Custom lens order based on the fitting trial results.
5. Lens dispensing and patient education on insertion, removal, and care.

Tools/Equipment:

• Slit lamp for eye examination.
• Corneal topographer.
• Contact lenses and fitting tools.

Anesthesia/Sedation:

• None required for fitting or usage.

Duration

Typical time taken:

• Initial fitting and consultation: Approx. 1-2 hours.
• Daily wear: removed and cleaned every night.

Setting

Location:

• Outpatient clinic or eye specialist's office.

Personnel

Healthcare professionals involved:

• Optometrist or ophthalmologist.
• Trained contact lens technician (if available).

Risks and Complications

Common and rare risks:

• Eye irritation or discomfort.
• Risk of corneal infection if the lenses are not cleaned properly.
• Rarely, allergic reactions to lens materials.

Possible complications management:

• Proper hygiene and lens care to minimize infection risk.
• Regular follow-up visits.

Benefits

Expected benefits:

• Significant improvement in vision and comfort.
• Enhanced ability to perform daily activities.
• Immediate benefits upon proper fitting and use.

Recovery

Post-procedure care:

• Regular cleaning and proper storage of lenses.
• Follow-up visits to monitor eye health.

Recovery time/Restrictions:

• Immediate use with minor adjustment period as patient becomes accustomed to lenses.
• No major restrictions but adherence to cleaning and care instructions is crucial.

Alternatives

Other treatment options:

• Standard contact lenses for less severe conditions.
• Glasses for vision correction.
• Refractive surgery for permanent correction.

Pros and cons:

• Standard lenses: Easier to obtain but may not offer as precise correction.
• Glasses: No risk of infection but may not correct vision as effectively.
• Refractive surgery: Offers permanent correction but comes with surgical risks.

Patient Experience

During procedure:

• Minimal discomfort during fitting and initial wearing.
• Vision tests and lens fitting might be time-consuming.

After procedure:

• Adjustment period to get accustomed to lenses.
• Most patients experience significant improvement in vision quality and comfort.

Pain management/comfort measures:

• Initial lens wear may cause mild discomfort which usually subsides.
• Lubricating eye drops may be recommended to enhance comfort.