Computer Software-Assisted Orthokeratology Lens Design

Abstract

Although dating back to ancient China where small weights were used on the eyelids to correct myopia, orthokeratology (ortho-k) is the practice of temporarily reshaping the corneal curvature to correct myopia and other refractive errors through the use of contact lenses. George Jessen has been credited as the father of modern orthokeratology when he first presented the idea in the 1960s. With the use of the wearer’s tearfilm, the contact lens creates a hydraulic force to remodel the cornea. The practice of ortho-k has improved significantly since the 1960’s in regard to the fitting philosophy and technology available, including more advanced and complex ortho-k lens designs and computerised software. This thesis presents three clinical case series illustrating the use of computer software to assist in the virtual design of orthokeratology lenses.