Effects of Orthokeratology Lens on Corneal Endothelium and Corneal Thickness

  Objective  To investigate the effects of overnight orthokeratology lens on corneal endothelium and corneal thickness after one year of treatment.

  Methods  Totally 40 patients(79 eyes)aged 8-14 years received orthokeratology lens treatment in our hospital from August 2008 to February 2009 were observed.Corneal endothelium and corneal thickness were assessed before the treatment, 6 months and 1 year after the treatment.Uncorrected visual acuity, diopter, and corneal topography were documented at the same time points as well.

  Results  Corneal endothelial cell density showed no significant reduction 6 months and 1 year after the treatment when compared with the baseline level(P > 0.05).Cell Variant Index and percentage of hexagonal cells showed no significant change 6 months after the treatment but the former slightly increased and the later decreased after 1 year of the treatment(both P < 0.05).Corneal thickness showed no significant change after 6 months or 1 year of treatment(both P > 0.05).Uncorrected visual acuity, diopter, and corneal topography significant changed after 1 year of treatment(P < 0.01).

  Conclusion  Orthokeratology lens can correct refractive error and control the development of myopia.However, its long-term wear may have slight deformative effect on corneal endothelium.Strictly monitoring and follow-up are required to ensure long-term effectiveness and safety.