Correcting corneal vision problems has been studied in the earlier 20th century. Previously, specialists had come up with spectacles that could combat them. The evolution of Orthokeratology started in 21st century with the so named Orthofus made by George Jessen. The earliest Orthofus contact lenses were constructed of hard polymethyl methacrylate. There were variations of Orthokeratology contact lenses made during the earliers. But, the recent enhancements have set up with the most excellent advancement ever. The latest Orthokeratology contact lenses are recognized as super gas permeable and could be worn throughout sleep
Further changes and development of Orthokeratology contact lenses were attributed to a number of great Orthokeratologists. Newly invented Orthokeratology contact lenses are made of rigid gas permeable lenses which are known as super gas permeable. These contact lenses are made from specific kind of firm plastic that permits great amount of oxygen to get through the cornea .Oxygen permeability is very important all through the treatment of corneal vision problems. Ortho-k contact lenses are larger than the standard ones and fabricated with multi-curves by using a computerized machine known as Great Molding. Latest revolutions have developed the most convenient contact lenses to date. Contact lenses are known to be typically used during waking hours could now be worn during sleep. These sleep-worn Ortho-k contact lenses are worn during the long sleep hours and removed during waking hours. Ortho-k contact lenses can correctly restore the curvature of cornea. The formation of Orthokeratology contact lenses are perfectly devised for not touching the surface of the cornea. Their special reverse geometrical curve formation compresses and appropriately shifts epithelial cells in the cornea. As the cornea’s surface is reshaped, it could then effectively refract light to the retina for sharper vision.
Orthokeratology contact lenses correct up to -6.00 diopters of myopia and 1.75 diopters of astigmatism. These eyes conditions are caused by the steeping shape of the cornea for acquired dislocated epithelial cells. Dislocated epithelial cells form curve in the surface of cornea. If cornea has an odd form, it won’t accurately focus light to the retina that then result to a distorted vision. Myopia or nearsightedness is classified by sharp vision with closer objects but distorted vision with farther objects. On the other hand, hyperopia or farsightedness works the other way around, clearer vision with farther object but distorted with the nearer ones. Astigmatism is the vision problem for both near and far objects. These vision problems could be genetic and acquired. Visual stress could be resulting to acquired corneal problem. Adults, children and even infants could be prone for these. Prior to prescription, Orthokeratologist calculates the curvature of the cornea using corneal topographer. The equipment generate topographical map of the eye's surface. The device shows the topography of the surface of the through color codes. After the diagnostic procedure, the specialist comes up with contact lenses that perfectly complement the stage of vision problem. Contact lenses’ wear schedule and life span are based mostly on specialist’s prescription. Period of therapy could also be confirmed by the degree of corneal problem based on the diagnostics. Previous technologies needs longer time for treatment but with this recent improvement, therapy would not reach up to year. This most current innovation doesn’t just give ease to the users when it comes to its ideal design but it also lessens the period of treatment.
Orthokeratology contact lenses are more useful than ever. Aside from treating eyesight problems, these contact lenses are valuable for those users who are not at ease wearing contact lenses or spectacles during the day. It is even more beneficial to pilots, athletes, soldiers and more. With the recent advancement of Orthokeratology contact lens, there would be a great chance that it could replace the traditional usage of corrective spectacles and surgical method in reshaping the cornea.
