Therapeutic applications of lotrafilcon a silicone hydrogel soft contact lenses.

PURPOSE: To investigate the effectiveness of silicone hydrogel soft contact lenses for therapeutic applications.

METHODS

The study included 37 patients who had bullous keratopathy (n=12), recurrent corneal erosion (n=9), filamentous keratitis (n=3), corneal melting after corneal surgery (n=4), lamellar lacerations (n=4), or chemical trauma (n=5) and were fitted with silicone hydrogel soft contact lenses between May 2000 and August 2003 in First Eye Clinic of Kartal Training and Research Hospital. Changes in corneal signs by slitlamp evaluation, judgment of pain relief, additional complications, and success of therapeutic lens treatment were reported. Appropriate medical therapy was given as required.

RESULTS

A total of 83.78% of the patients had complete healing, and 8.1% of the patients showed at least partial improvement. Visual acuity improved in 56% of patients, and pain relief was achieved in 91.16% of the patients. No additional complications were reported in relation to the lenses.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of high-Dk lotrafilcon A soft contact lenses for therapeutic purposes is safe, effective, and practical.