Novel SiHy Lens Reduces Tear Film Destabilization Following Mask Wear

Verofilcon A demonstrates superiority over other silicone hydrogel (SiHy) contact lens materials due to improved contrast sensitivity and noninvasive tear breakup time (NIBUT) scores and may reduce ocular discomfort among healthcare professionals who wear surgical masks for extended periods of time, according to a study published in Clinical Optometry. 

Researchers enrolled 77 healthcare workers (eyes, 147) with no previous contact lens wear experience and randomized them to 1 of 3 contact lens materials including verofilcon A (n=26; 50% women; mean age, 25.76 years), nesofilcon A (n=25; 44% women; mean age, 24.72 years) and senofilcon A (n=26; 54% women; mean age, 26.00 years). Participants underwent baseline assessments including best corrected visual acuity (BCVA), non-invasive break-up time (NIBUT) of the pre-lens tear film, and corneal topography to detect high order aberrations (HoAs). Follow-up was conducted 28 days after the baseline visit and involved NIBUT testing at 1, 4, 8, and 12 hours, along with HoA and contrast sensitivity assessment. Participants completed the contact lens dry eye questionnaire-8 (CLDEQ-8) to report contact lens-related symptoms.

According to the report, participants who wore verofilcon A lenses had higher mean NIBUT scores at 4 (11.67 seconds), 8 (10.44 seconds), and 12 (9.15 seconds) hours compared with individuals who wore nesofilcon A or senofilcon A. The mean HoAs and CLDEQ-8 test scores were higher among participants in the nesofilcon A group (both P <.001).

“Although the early measurements were similar, verofilcon A showed a better [pre-lens tear film] stability performance at extended wear times with better NIBUT score, HoAs coefficient, and [contrast sensitivity] scores at higher spatial frequencies compared to senofilcon A and nesofilcon A,” the study authors note. “Thus, the verofilcon A lens may be one of the best options for those seeking stable visual performance with prolonged facial mask usage in challenging environments.”

Study limitations include a small sample size, short study duration, and an inability to use single- or double-masked CLs in the study groups.

Disclosure: This research was supported by Alcon. Please see the original reference for a full list of disclosures.