Presbyopic Success

FRANK GIARDINA, O.D., F.A.A.O.
May 1996

Aspheric progressive addition multifocal RGPs offer the presbyopic patient a wide range of clear, binocular vision and are relatively easy to fit.

I've had particular success with the Multisite RGP from AC Labs, Lincoln, Neb., and would recommend this lens for all your contact lens patients who are presbyopic, highly binocular and who demand clear vision at all viewing distances.

James, 47, presented with a spectacle correction of OD -1.50, 20/15 and OS -1.75 -0.25 x 180, 20/15, add +1.75, 4pt. His keratometry readings were OD 42.50 @ 180, 43.25 @ 090 and OS 42.75 @ 1280, 43.575 @ 090.

James was interested in eliminating bifocal spectacle wear from his daily routine so I decided to fit him with the Multisite RGP. Because the Multisite is fit steeper than K, I used the following formula: base curve = K (flat) + sphere power + 1.00D +1/2 (delta K).

This type of lens fit created a plus tear lens so I added minus power to the contact lens using the following formula: power compensation = K (flat) - base curve.

The final specifications were: OD -4.75D, 9.2mm dia., 45.75 b.c. (Paraperm 02); OS -5.00D, 9.2mm dia., 46.00 b.c. (Paraperm 02).

James was very pleased with the final prescription. He now sees 20/20 at distance and 6 point OU at near. CLS

Dr. Giardina practices at the St. Louis Medical Vision Center with a special interest in contact lenses. He is a graduate of Pacific University College of Optometry.