In this Expert Interview, we speak to Dr Deborah K VanderVeen about the rationale for the use of orthokeratology for the prevention of myopic progression in children, and the conclusion of the recent American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) report on this subject. She also discusses which children it would likely benefit and those in whom it is contraindicated, and the major safety implications.
Q: What is the rationale for the use of orthokeratology for the prevention of myopic progression in children?
Overnight orthokeratology (ortho-k) lenses are worn to flatten the central cornea, which results in peripheral hyperopic defocus on the retina. This is thought to slow the elongation of the eye (slow axial growth). Less elongation of the eye results in less progression of the myopia.
Q: What was the conclusion of the recent AAO report on this subject?
The Ophthalmic Technology Assessment committee studies interventions to look at evidence for efficacy, but the intent is not to endorse or negate the effects of technologies. The clinical studies reviewed overall show a statistically significant slowing of axial length growth in the groups of children who wore ortho-k lenses, compared with control groups of children who used spectacle or daytime soft contact lenses for the correction of myopia.1Â Most of the patients were between 8 and 16 years of age, and most were of Asian ethnicity. Concerns about the studies were small numbers of patients, high drop-out rates, and small and variable clinical effects. In addition, there are also concerns about the cost of the treatment and safety, since any contact lens wear carries with it the risk of microbial keratitis, which is potentially blinding.1
Q: Which children are most likely to benefit from this treatment, and in whom is it contraindicated?
The children in the study were mostly of Asian ethnicity, so it is unknown whether there is genetic influence with regard to treatment response.1Â There is a suggestion that younger children can benefit more, and that combining ortho-k treatment with atropine (low-dose) may have a synergistic effect.1
Q: What are the major safety concerns associated with this procedure, and how can the risks be minimized?
The major safety concern is microbial keratitis. This can be minimized by proper fitting of the lenses, with careful oversight by an optometrist certified in ortho-k treatment, regular follow-up, and good contact lens care. There is still a risk of infection with contact lenses, and this may be higher with overnight wear of contact lenses. In contrast, there is no such risk with comparable treatments, such as spectacle wear with low-dose atropine.1
