Orthokeratology practice in children in a university clinic in Hong Kong

Purposes: The aim of this study was to analyse clinical data of children undergoing orthokeratology (ortho-k) and to investigate patients'/parents' perspective on ortho-k via telephone interviews. Methods: Clinical records of children undergoing ortho-k from a university optometry clinic were reviewed and the effects of ortho-k on refraction, vision and cornea were investigated. A telephone interview was conducted to solicit patients'/parents' perspective of the treatment. Results: One hundred and eight files were reviewed. Median age of the children was nine years (range six to 15); mean (+/- SD) pre-treatment refractive sphere was -3.56 +/- 1.49 D and the median refractive cylinder was -0.50 D (range zero to -4.25 D). Significant refractive spherical reduction (58 per cent), improvement in unaided vision and corneal topographical changes were noted after only one night of wear. No significant change in astigmatism was found. Corneal staining was the most commonly observed complication with ortho-k and more than 80 per cent of patients were advised to apply ocular lubricants to loosen the lens before lens removal. Ortho-k was mainly undertaken for myopic control and about 90 per cent of the respondents reported good/very good unaided vision after ortho-k and ranked the treatment as satisfactory or very good. Lens binding and ocular discharge were the most frequently reported problems during the treatment. Conclusion: Under close monitoring, overnight ortho-k is effective and safe for reducing low to moderate myopia and the treatment is well accepted by the children.