Corneal Refractive Therapy

What Is Corneal Refractive Therapy?

Corneal refractive therapy (CRT) (also called orthokeratology orortho-K), is a treatment for myopia, a type of refractive error causing blurry distance vision. Myopia can be a progressive vision problem, as eye growth can worsen the condition. Myopia control methods, including corneal refractive therapy, work to stop progression and protect healthy vision.

Ortho-k uses contact lenses to slow eye growth. The treatment is effective in children and can be a less invasive alternative to laser eye surgery, which isn’t typically an option available for children Our eye care team can assess if your child is a good candidate for corneal refractive therapy. Contact our friendly staff for more information about our children’s eye exams.

Book an appointment today with Valley Optometric Group today.

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How Does Ortho-k Work?

Corneal refractive therapy uses gas permeable (hard) contact lenses to gently reshape the cornea. Patients wear the lenses overnight. In the morning, the lenses are removed and the patient requires no further correction during the day.

Many patients notice vision improvements in days, but it can take up to 2 weeks. Ortho-k lenses must be consistently worn overnight to maintain the new eye shape.Children are good candidates for ortho-k, but younger children might need help getting into a regular nighttime routine.

Finding the Right Fit

Creating the right fit for ortho-k lenses requires multiple appointments, as it’s customized for the patient’s unique eye shape. We map the curves and shape of the eye using a corneal topographer. The assessment is noninvasive and doesn’t touch the eye. Then, we design the ortho-k lenses with the measurements.

As wearing contact lenses for the first time can be challenging, our optometrists can help show your child how to insert and remove their ortho-k lenses. Our contact lens services are available for any patient needing training for contact lens use and care.

What to Expect with Ortho-K

Take a look at the advantages and disadvantages to learn more about what to expect from corneal refractive therapy.

Advantages

Ortho-k lenses are worn at night so kids can be lens-free during the day. Although you can choose to wear ortho-k contacts during waking hours, they’re less comfortable for on-the-go wear compared to traditional daily contacts.

Most patients using ortho-k achieve 20/40 vision or better. Vision correction occurs after every instance of wear but can last up to 2 days after treatment.

The gas permeable contacts used for corneal refractive therapy are durable and easier to handle. They also improve the eye’s access to oxygen and moisture, reducing the risk of hypoxia and dry eye.

Disadvantages

Although an effective treatment for children, it’s crucial they practice contact lens hygiene to prevent infection. Contact lens wear has an increased risk of eye infections, particularly bacterial keratitis, due to frequent eye touching.

Some children may find wearing ortho-k contacts challenging. Learning how to insert and remove any lenses requires contact lens training. Our optometrists offer contact lens services, from fitting to training, to help children learn contact lens skills.

Contact Us for Corneal Refractive Therapy

Corneal refractive therapy or ortho-k is one option for managing myopia. Our eye care team can answer your questions about vision correction and contact lenses. Contact our friendly staff to learn more!

Book an appointment with Valley Optometric Group.