PRACTITIONERS have the opportunity to be early embracers of technology as it pertains to patient care. One such innovation that has received attention over the past few years is digital contact lens design software.
Eyecare providers can now measure both corneal and scleral shape with specialized profilometers, after which one moves topography and/or tomography images into a specialized software program and uses that information to design the ideal lens. This system, along with impression-based lens designs, allows the highest possible level of customization available in specialty contact lens fitting today.
WHY SHOULD PRACTICES CONSIDER DIGITAL LENS DESIGN?
In a busy practice, time is of the essence. It is critical to capitalize on each examination slot and accomplish as much as possible without expending excessive resources. In scleral contact lens fitting, trying multiple lenses on a patient at an initial visit is time-consuming and can easily put a practitioner behind schedule. In the same vein, orthokeratology lens fits requiring multiple remakes can burn into chair time and burden patients who must return for several visits.
Patients are eager to see well and feel comfortable in their specialty contact lenses. In many cases, they are making a multiyear financial commitment once the fitting process begins. This is a large load for patients to bear, and having software at our disposal that can make the experience streamlined and positive is an enormous plus for them.
Corneoscleral profilometry and lens design can provide a clearer road map for specialty lens fitting. A close fitting relationship between a scleral lens landing zone and the ocular surface is imperative to create a healthy environment with optimal vision and comfort (Fadel, 2019).
Precise measurements used to design highly customized lenses result in a more consistent outcome for the patient. Accurately fitting lenses earlier in the process may cut down on the number of remakes required.
Ordering lenses digitally also reduces the time the practitioner spends making phone calls, waiting on hold, recording keratometry values, sending emails, and more. When measurements are automatically added to the fitting software, practitioners can spend more time on actual design choices and less time on data entry.
ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES?
As with any new equipment or technology, there is a learning curve. Technicians and/or practitioners must learn to use the device properly before streamlining it into patient care. Because these are extremely specific measurements, careful execution of the digital fitting process is required.
Deciding to incorporate newer technology in a practice also requires the consideration of finances. Newer equipment can be costly, and fitting fees may need to be adjusted to reflect the higher level of care provided. A smaller issue with any new equipment is its footprint in the office; profilometers can take up space, but digital fitting software is primarily accessed through a web-based platform or application.
ULTIMATELY, EVERYONE BENEFITS
Specialty contact lens fitting requires that patients trust their providers. Practices adopting digital lens design software are able to help more patients and give efficient care, building confidence in the provider. Offering a technology-driven digital contact lens fitting system is mutually beneficial for the patient and the practice.
REFERENCES
1. Fadel D. Scleral Lens Issues and Complications Related to a Non-optimal Fitting Relationship Between the Lens and Ocular Surface. Eye Contact Lens. 2019 May;45:152-163.
