Which Lens Wins in Keratoconus?  - Report - MDSpire

Which Lens Wins in Keratoconus? 

  • By

  • Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS

  • January 1, 2026

  • 5 min

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Clinical Report: Which Lens Wins in Keratoconus?

Overview

This study compares visual outcomes between mini-scleral lenses and small-diameter rigid GP lenses in moderate-to-severe keratoconus, emphasizing the role of topographic indices in lens selection.

Background

Keratoconus is a progressive eye disease that leads to visual impairment due to corneal thinning and irregularity. Selecting the appropriate contact lens is crucial for optimizing vision in affected individuals. This study addresses the comparative effectiveness of mini-scleral lenses versus small-diameter rigid GP lenses, providing insights into their clinical utility.

Data Highlights

Lens TypeBCVA ImprovementSurface Regularity IndexIrregular Astigmatism IndexCenter-Surround Index
Mini-Scleral LensesSignificantHigherHigherLower
Rigid GP LensesSignificantLowerLowerHigher

Key Findings

  • Both mini-scleral lenses and small-diameter rigid GP lenses significantly improved best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA).
  • RGP lenses showed lower surface regularity index, cone-to-center distance, and irregular astigmatism index compared to SLs.
  • Higher center-surround index (CSI) values were associated with better outcomes for RGP lenses.
  • Lower CSI values correlated with greater visual improvement, indicating cone location's influence on lens success.
  • Topographic indices such as CSI and irregular astigmatism index (IAI) can guide lens selection and predict visual improvement.

Clinical Implications

Expand on how practitioners can effectively use topographic indices in their lens selection process.

Conclusion

Highlight the necessity of tailoring lens selection to individual corneal topography and patient needs.

References

  1. Barnett M, Contact Lens Spectrum, 2026 -- Which Lens Wins in Keratoconus?
  2. Barnett M, Contact Lens Spectrum, 2005 -- Improving a Keratoconus Lens Design
  3. Cutler SI, Contact Lens Spectrum, 1999 -- Managing Keratoconus with Proprietary Designs
  4. AAO, Guideline Central, 2024 -- Corneal Ectasia Guideline Summary
  5. Scientific Reports, 2026 -- Prospective pilot randomized controlled study of mini-scleral lenses versus rigid gas permeable lenses
  6. Contact Lens Spectrum — Contact Lens Options for Managing Keratoconus
  7. AAO Corneal Ectasia Guideline Summary 2024 Preferred Practice Pattern - Guideline Central
  8. Prospective pilot randomized controlled study of mini-scleral lenses versus rigid gas permeable lenses in irregular cornea with dry eye | Scientific Reports

Original Source(s)

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