Name of the Procedure:

Common name(s): Spherocylinder, Single Vision Lens
Technical/Medical term: Spherocylindrical Lens Correction, Single Vision, Plus or Minus 4.25 to 7.00d Sphere, Over 6.00d Cylinder, Per Lens (V2110)

Summary

Spherocylinder single vision lenses are specially engineered eyeglass lenses designed to correct vision issues involving significant astigmatism along with near or farsightedness. These lenses cater to patients with a sphere power ranging from +4.25 to +7.00 diopters or -4.25 to -7.00 diopters and a cylinder power over 6.00 diopters.

Purpose

The primary goal of spherocylinder lenses is to correct complex refractive errors, helping patients achieve clear and comfortable vision. These lenses specifically address the following issues:

• Astigmatism: A condition where the cornea is irregularly shaped, causing blurred or distorted vision.
• Hyperopia (farsightedness) or Myopia (nearsightedness): Vision issues caused by the eye's inability to focus light accurately on the retina.

Indications

This procedure is indicated for patients exhibiting:

• Significant astigmatism (over 6.00 diopters)
• Hyperopia or myopia within the specified range of 4.25 to 7.00 diopters
• Difficulty seeing clearly due to the combined impact of these conditions
• Prescription glasses ineffectiveness or patient-reported symptoms like headaches, eye strain, or blurred vision

Preparation

• Pre-procedure instructions:
  • Attend a comprehensive eye examination.
  • Update any existing prescription with precise measurements of sphere and cylinder power.
  • Discuss any history of eye conditions or surgeries.

Procedure Description

1. Eye Examination: A detailed eye exam evaluates both the refractive error and overall eye health.
2. Lens Prescription: Based on the exam, an optometrist prescribes the specific corrections required.
3. Lens Manufacturing: The lenses are custom-made, incorporating the specific spherocylindrical corrections needed.
4. Fitting and Adjustment: Once ready, the lenses are fitted into a frame selected by the patient, and adjustments ensure a comfortable fit.

Tools and Equipment: Lensometer, phoropter, slit lamp, autorefractor

Anesthesia or Sedation: Not applicable

Duration

The entire process, from the eye examination to the fitting, typically takes between 1 to 2 weeks. The actual fitting and adjustment phase takes around 30 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in an optometrist's office or an optical clinic.

Personnel

• Optometrist
• Optician
• Optical technician

Risks and Complications

• Common risks: Minor discomfort or pressure points from new glasses
• Rare risks: Incorrect lens prescription leading to persistent vision problems; lens intolerance

Management: Regular follow-ups to adjust the fit or modify the prescription

Benefits

• Enhanced visual clarity
• Reduced eye strain and headaches
• Improved quality of life due to clear vision
• Benefits are typically realized immediately after the lenses are adjusted and fitted.

Recovery

• Post-procedure care: Regular cleaning and proper handling of glasses.
• Expected recovery time: Immediate adaptation, although minor adjustment time may be required.
• Follow-up: Schedule follow-up appointments if discomfort persists or clarity is not achieved.

Alternatives

• Other treatment options: Contact lenses, LASIK or other refractive surgeries
• Pros and cons:
  • Contact lenses: Suitable for those unwilling to wear glasses but can be uncomfortable for some.
  • Refractive surgeries: Permanent correction but involve higher costs and surgical risks.

Patient Experience

During the procedure:

• Mild discomfort from the eye exam.
• No pain during lens fitting.

After the procedure:

• Initial adjustment period to get used to new lenses.
• Possible minor discomfort initially.
• Ongoing comfort and clarity once adjusted.

Pain management: Typically unnecessary, but lubricating eye drops can be used if minor irritation occurs during the adjustment period.