Intraocular Pressure Contact Lenses – Suitable for Everyday Use Yet?

Abstract

The importance of intraocular pressure (IOP) as a relevant and treatable risk factor for the development or progression of glaucoma is evident. In managing this disease, to take only a single or a few measurements of this crucial parameter is definitely suboptimal. Technical research has developed contact lenses with embedded structures that are able to measure the IOP or surrogates over a longer period of time. One such system measures changes of the peripheral corneal curvature by means of strain gauges, and another measures the IOP by means of a piezoresistant membrane. Comfort is increased by wireless data transmission and miniaturisation of devices that do not influence visual acuity or daily/nightly activities. The safety and tolerability of the Triggerfish ® contact lens is good and proved by several clinical observational studies. Missing are studies that confirm the reliability and reproducibility of the results. So far, no device can be recommended for everyday use in an ophthalmological office.