Evidence of Contact Lenses for Vision Rehabilitation in Corneal Diseases: A Review

Abstract

Objectives: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of contact lenses (CL) as a therapeutic option for patients affected by a corneal disease and to determinate which is the best lens modality for each disease. Methods: A literature review using PubMed was performed. All relevant articles published during the last 15 years have been included. Results: Various studies point to CL as the best therapeutic option for some corneal diseases and even as an alternative to surgery in some cases. After fitting, patients show an improvement in their functional vision and quality of life, in some cases being able to drive or work again. Conclusions: There is a lack of scientific evidence to determine which lens modality is suitable for each corneal pathology. Currently, according to this review, the reason for choosing between the different options depends on the severity of symptoms, and it is worth mentioning that scleral lenses seem to be the best option in advanced stages of disease. However, the expertise of professionals is also an important factor at the time of choosing a particular CL modality. Standardized criteria are still necessary for correct selection of lens modality for a correct management of the disease.