A PROSPECTIVE-STUDY OF CONTACT-LENS COMPLICATIONS IN A MANAGED CARE SETTING

Background. Understanding the rate of contact lens-related complicatio ns and the factors that affect their occurrence can facilitate better prescribing decisions. Methods. In a managed care setting, 1496 patien t visits were evaluated using a common protocol by 11 optometrists to determine the prevalence of all contact lens-related complications. Re sults. Over one-half (61%) of the visits were normal, with the remaind er showing some type of complication. The more prevalent complications included superficial punctate staining (17.3%) and neovascularization (11.4%). Total complications were less prevalent with rigid gas perme able (RGP) and disposable lens types. Planned replacement soft lenses, used on a daily weer schedule, had the lowest prevalence of more seri ous complications when compared to conventional soft and disposable te nses. Patients on an extended wear schedule greater than 3 days were m ore likely to experience complications. The use of nonapproved care sy stems showed more complications, with serious complications reduced wh en a one-step care system was used. Conclusion. Choice of lens type, w earing schedule, and care system does affect the prevalence of complic ations, which underlines the importance of the recommendations of the prescriber.