The Effect of Lens Design on Corneal Power Distribution in Orthokeratology

Abstract

Significance: This study will enhance our understanding of the effects of orthokeratology lens design on corneal profile, the results of which may be useful in developing future orthokeratology lens designs.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the effect of lens design on corneal power distribution after orthokeratology using mathematical methods.

Methods: Sixty-five subjects were enrolled in this prospective study and assigned to four groups: Euclid with 6.2-mm back optic zone diameter (aged <14 years), Euclid with 6.2-mm back optic zone diameter (aged ≥14 years), double tear reservoir lens with 5.0-mm back optic zone diameter, and double tear reservoir lens with 6.0-mm back optic zone diameter. Manifest refraction and corneal topography were checked at baseline and 1 day, 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month after lens wear. Relative corneal refractive power change was calculated by a polynomial function and a monomial function. The maximum relative corneal refractive power change (Ymax) and the corresponding distance from the corneal center (Xmax) were analyzed. Relative corneal refractive power change over time and between groups was compared using repeated-measures analysis of variance.

Results: Refractive reduction and central corneal flattening were seen at all follow-up visits after orthokeratology lens wear, being fastest in the 5.0-mm back optic zone diameter group (P < .001). The cornea steepened in an aspheric way toward the midperiphery and peaked at approximately 2 to 3 mm off the apex. Overall, Ymax was not different among the four groups, but Xmax was smallest in the 5.0-mm back optic zone diameter group (P < .001). At 1/2 Xmax, relative corneal refractive power change of the 5.0-mm back optic zone diameter design was significantly higher than that of the other three groups (P < .001). The power exponent of the monomial of the 5.0-mm back optic zone diameter design was greater than that of the other three groups (P < .001).

Conclusions: An orthokeratology lens design with smaller back optic zone diameter might yield a faster myopic reduction and a smaller aspheric treatment zone.