Kosin Med J.  2023 Dec;38(4):231-240. 10.7180/kmj.23.141.

Prevention of myopia progression using orthokeratology

Affiliations
  • 1Department of Ophthalmology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  • 2Stein Eye Institute, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, USA
  • 3Department of Ophthalmology, Kosin University College of Medicine, Busan, Korea

Abstract

The prevalence of myopia in children and juveniles has increased significantly in Korea and worldwide; in particular, the rates of myopia and high myopia in East Asia have grown rapidly. Myopia is easily corrected with spectacles or contact lenses. However, as children grow and mature, myopia can progress irreversibly and lead to vision-threatening complications. Thus, the prevention of myopia progression is an essential treatment goal. Many treatment strategies are being employed, including atropine eyedrops, specialized glasses, and orthokeratology (Ortho-K) lenses. Ortho-K is an effective treatment in managing myopia progression by lowering the rate of increase in refractive error and axial length. In this article, we review Ortho-K as a treatment for myopia progression, its history, mechanism, treatment regimen, and safety profile.

Keyword

Myopia prevention; Myopia progression; Orthokeratology

Figure

  • Fig. 1. Overview of orthokeratology (Ortho-K). (A) In myopia, the focus is formed in front of the retina. (B) Ortho-K lenses make the focus form on the retina. (C) After taking off the lenses, the cornea remains flattened and the focus is on the retina.


Reference

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