rose-k versus conventional rgp contact lenses for management of keratoconus

purpose: to compare rose-k and conventional rgp contact lenses in terms of visual acuity, visual function and comfort in keratoconus patients. method: fifty-four patients with keratoconus were randomly fitted with rose-k and conventional rgp contact lens (wohlk contact lens), by one experienced ophthalmologist using a standard (three touch point) approach. general and demographic information, kr values, far and near visual acuity without and with contact lenses ,daily contact lens wearing time, daily need for lens removal, patient comfort with contact lens, and visual function score(based on vfq-25 questionnaire) at initial and follow up visits were measured and compared. results: both rose-k and conventional rgp (wohlk) lenses improved far and near visual acuity in all patients and there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p=0.88).daily contact lens wearing time and patients comfort with lenses was greater in the rose-k group (p<0.001). daily need for lens removal was almost equal in the two groups (mean=1.4 hr, p=0.83). there was significant improvement in visual function in all patients with use of contact lenses, but there was no significant difference between the two groups (p=0.45). conclusion: both lenses improve visual acuity and function in patients with keratoconus, but rose-k lenses are a good therapeutic alternative for rehabilitation of keratoconus patients; they offer more comfort in comparison to conventional rgp contact lenses.