Effect of gas-permeable contact lenses on the endothelium of corneal transplants

M. G. Speaker, E. J. Cohen, H. F. Edelhauser, C. S. Clemons, J. J. Arentsen, P. R. Laibson and E. M. Raskin
New York (NY) Eye & Ear Infirmary.

The effects of gas-permeable contact lens wear on the density and morphologic characteristics of corneal endothelial cells were prospectively studied by wide-field specular microscopy in 18 eyes that had undergone keratoplasty at least 14 months previously. Daily-wear rigid gas-permeable lenses were fitted to allow as much movement and tear exchange as possible. There was no evidence of morphologic instability of the endothelial cells during the course of the study, with a mean duration of lens wear of 9.8 months. Although there is concern over adverse effects associated with polymethylmethacrylate contact lens wear, this study suggests that the endothelium of a corneal transplant tolerates rigid gas-permeable lens wear without adverse effect during a limited period of follow-up.