Analysis of the Reasons for the Discontinuation of Orthokeratology Lens Use: A 4-Year Retrospective Study.

Purpose: Although orthokeratology has a positive effect on myopia control, some patients discontinue orthokeratology lens use. This study analyzed the data of all patients who had been fitted with an orthokeratology lens in the past 4 years and the reasons for discontinued lens use, with the aim of improving the prevention and control of myopia.

Methods: This retrospective study analyzed the data of patients, aged 8 to 18 years, fitted with orthokeratology lenses from 2017 to 2020. The ametropic spherical lens powers ranged from -6.00 D to -0.75 D, and the cylindrical lens powers were all more than -1.50 D. The reasons for discontinuation of lens wear were analyzed and compared. The period of lens wear (median [range]) was 24 (13.5-34.5) months.

Results: A total of 2,499 patients' files were retrieved. The duration of lens wear was 24 (13.5-34.5) months. A total of 50 patients discontinued lens use, including 25 patients (50.0%) who could not adhere to lens use for various reasons, nine patients (18.0%) with a short sleep time, eight patients (16.0%) with economic difficulties, and five patients (10.0%) who experienced a poor effect after wearing the lenses. Corneal infiltrates affected lens use in three patients (6.0%). In addition, 30 patients underwent surgical correction when they reached adulthood.

Conclusion: Although orthokeratology lenses are effective and safe, there are still a small number of patients who discontinued lens use for various reasons. Adherence and precautions should be emphasized during the process.