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Corneal reshaping through orthokeratology as a means to control myopia progression has made tremendous progress over the past decade. Below, Dr. Cary M Herzberg, president of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (IAOMC), discusses the developments that have been made in the field and how the IAOMC hopes to continue to push the scientific envelope in the years to come.
Dr. Gonzalo Carracedo of the University Complutense in Madrid then details how orthokeratology has come to be recognized worldwide as a safe and effective procedure in the long term.
The orthokeratology (Ortho-K) effect was first observed as a side effect of contact lenses made of Poly methyl methacrylate (PMMA), which flattened in their radius of curvature over time. “What started as a method to reduce temporarily the refractive error of nearsighted individuals evolved, with the help of innovative design choices, to advanced engineering of the corneal surface of the eye,” explains Dr. Cary M. Herzberg, OD FIAO, president of the International Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control (IAOMC).
With the optics and resulting aberrations of an oblate corneal surface including spherical aberration, advanced design choices could provide solutions for progressive myopia and presbyopia. Ortho-K also attracted maverick practitioners, who brought a spirit of imaginative innovation to the world. “It has been my honor to have led several of these organizations and to have helped found the international academy, which now spans the globe,” continued Dr. Herzberg. “Our mission is in part to help find solutions to the myopia epidemic which threatens the eye health of present and future generations”.
Article from the magazine "Point de vue"
