Revlens: a new, soft acrylic rubber extended-wear contact lens

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Optometry
• Biomaterials Science

Background:

• Congenital cataracts and aphakia present significant visual challenges.
• Extended-wear contact lenses offer potential solutions for visual correction.
• Soft acrylic rubber materials are being explored for improved contact lens comfort and wearability.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the clinical performance and patient acceptance of a new soft acrylic rubber extended-wear contact lens, Revlens.
• To assess the suitability of Revlens for patients with aphakia secondary to congenital cataracts and other visual conditions.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving fitting 21 eyes in 15 patients with Revlens contact lenses.
• Patient indications included aphakia (congenital cataracts), oculocutaneous albinism, and anisometropic amblyopia.
• Patient outcomes were monitored for at least 6 months, with an average follow-up of 9 months.

Main Results:

• 12 out of 15 patients (80%) readily accepted the Revlens lens after a minimum 6-month monitoring period.
• Three aphakic patients were unable to wear the lens due to reasons including preference for rigid lenses, refusal of contact lenses, or social circumstances.
• The lens was fitted for various conditions, including developmental cataracts associated with specific syndromes and albinism.

Conclusions:

• Revlens, a novel soft acrylic rubber extended-wear contact lens, demonstrates a high rate of patient acceptance.
• The lens is a viable option for managing aphakia and other visual impairments, particularly in pediatric cases.
• Further research may explore strategies to improve adaptation for the small percentage of patients who do not readily accept the lens.