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Orthokeratology is a non-surgical process, which reshapes the cornea
of the eye with the temporary use of progressively flatter hard contact lenses
thereby, reduces the dependence
upon eyewear. The procedure was discovered over 40 years ago when eye doctors
noticed that some contact lens wearers' vision improved after wearing their
lenses. Initially, only old-fashioned, hard contact lens material (PMMA)
was used. Ortho-K is best suited for myopia (nearsightedness),
but studies are
underway for hyperopia (farsightedness). The inherent problems associated
with that plastic prolonged the procedure for up to two (2) years. Now,
with the advent of space-age polymers, computer-assisted lathes, and great
technological advancement in the procedure, it is possible to achieve reduction
of myopia in a matter of weeks to a few months. This procedure is known as
OrthoKeratology (Ortho-K). The principle upon which Ortho-K is based is
quite sound and simple.
Basically, the patient wears a special contact lens that, over time, gradually reshapes their cornea.
Adler Eye Associates uses the
Paragon CRT (Corneal Refractive Therapy) fitting system for their ortho-k patients.
We recommend you explore the Paragon CRT web site to learn more about their
total system. You may also be very interested in their
white paper, which gives a lot of information about their clinic results including success rates.
The cornea makes up about two-thirds of the eye's total power to focus
the light precisely on the retina (receiving screen) which is located
in the back of the eye. By slight modifications in the shape of the cornea,
clear functional vision may be restored for a period of time. Recently,
several surgical procedures have been developed to attempt to accomplish
the same purpose (i.e., changing the curvature of the cornea). Since the
cornea is soft, it can continue to change shape as time goes by. The individual
prescription may continue to vary leading to increased dependence upon
eyewear within months to just a few years after the surgical procedure.
(RK) produce scars
causing surface irregularities on the cornea, resulting in permanent blurring
that even glasses or contacts cannot eliminate. Conversely, Ortho-K is
accomplished with a contact lens device
that may be referred to as a corneal
mold. The mold is similar to a contact lens in its appearance and the
way it feels while being worn. The mold is working as it is worn, whether
you are sleeping or awake. The procedure takes just hours (in mild cases)
to a few months (in very difficult cases) to reach good functional vision.
At that point, the mold-wearing time is gradually reduced until a minimal-wear
time is established that maintains the corneal shape and good functional
vision. This assures continued clarity without the gradual blurring that
may accompany surgery. Therefore, the cornea can easily be fine-tuned
by minor modifications to the retainer mold.
Ortho-K utilizes precise instrumentation to accurately determine the corneal
shape before treatment. The
corneal topographer
"maps" the eye using
thousands of points. This enables the orthokeratologist to design the lens
for each eye instead of using "stock" lenses. These topographic maps or
pictures then are used to determine if the corneal shape is changing in
the correct manner. The typical map shows a central red ring (steepened
area) surrounding the flattened area. This flat area must be centered over
the pupil. Corneal Mold - Topographic Map Ortho-K is not only an excellent
alternative to the wearing of spectacles, but it also frees the individual
from the distractions caused by perspiration, dust, wind, weather
and temperature.
There are no more blind spots caused by frame or lens edges. It is great
to wear "regular" fashion sunglasses, to get up at night or in the morning
and see, to go swimming and skiing, to drive in a convertible with the top
down, to work in the dust, grass or in the garden, and to be able to see
in cases of emergencies. Ortho-K might open new horizons to you. To find
out if you are a candidate for Orthokeratology, contact our office.
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