Fenestrated scleral lenses

Fenestrated scleral lenses are a specialized type of contact lens designed to address various eye conditions and provide therapeutic benefits. These lenses have gained attention for their unique design, which includes tiny openings or perforations, known as fenestrations, on the portion of the lens that covers the cornea.

Here are some key points about fenestrated scleral lenses:

1. **Design and Purpose:** Scleral lenses are large, gas-permeable lenses that vault over the cornea and rest on the sclera (the white part of the eye). Fenestrated scleral lenses have small holes on the central optical zone of the lens, allowing for the exchange of tears and fluids between the cornea and the space beneath the lens. This design can be particularly beneficial for people with certain eye conditions.

2. **Oxygen and Tear Flow:** The fenestrations in these lenses promote tear circulation, which can help maintain a healthier corneal environment by providing consistent tear exchange and oxygen supply to the cornea. This can be especially advantageous for individuals with conditions like dry eye, corneal irregularities, or other ocular surface issues.

3. **Therapeutic Applications:** Fenestrated scleral lenses are often used as a therapeutic option for patients with various eye conditions, such as keratoconus, irregular astigmatism, corneal grafts, and severe dry eye. The tear reservoir created by the lens can improve visual acuity, reduce discomfort, and protect the cornea by providing a moist environment.

4. **Customization:** Like other specialty contact lenses, fenestrated scleral lenses are custom-made to fit the unique shape and needs of each individual's eyes. The size, location, and number of fenestrations can be tailored to the patient's specific requirements.

5. **Professional Fitting:** Fitting and prescribing fenestrated scleral lenses require specialized expertise and equipment. An eye care professional experienced in fitting scleral lenses will carefully assess the patient's eye health, refractive needs, and any underlying conditions to determine if fenestrated scleral lenses are a suitable option.

6. **Ongoing Advancements:** As with other areas of eye care, technology and research in contact lens design continue to evolve. New developments may lead to refinements in fenestrated scleral lens design and expanded applications.

It's important to consult with an eye care professional if you're considering fenestrated scleral lenses or any other type of contact lens. They can evaluate your eye health, discuss your visual needs, and determine the most appropriate and effective treatment option for your specific situation. Please note that my information is based on knowledge available up until September 2021, and there may have been further developments since that time.

Don Ezikiel from Australia is called the father of Scleral lenses as he introduced the scleral lenses with oxygen permeable materials to the world helping numerous patients with Keratoconus.

Due to its constant fluid exchange properties through small holes in the optics of scleral lenses, it can be a best option for continuous and extended wear especially for kids and people with difficulty handling insertion and removal every day.

No need of filling it up with extra eye drops or saline it is less expensive to maintain.