Best Solution for RGP Lenses

Clinical Considerations in Lens Care

Rigid gas permeable (RGP) lenses require specialised care systems to maintain optical performance, surface integrity and long-term ocular health.

At Rose Optometry and the New Zealand Eye Research Centre (NZERC), lens care protocols are tailored to the unique material properties and clinical applications of RGP lenses.

Unlike soft lenses, RGP lenses are more resistant to dehydration but are prone to surface deposits, requiring effective cleaning and conditioning systems.

RGP Lens Care Systems

Modern RGP care involves a multi-step approach designed to clean, disinfect and condition the lens surface.

This ensures optimal wettability, comfort and visual clarity.

Key components of RGP care systems include:

• Daily cleaner for deposit removal
• Conditioning (soaking) solution for disinfection and hydration
• Protein removal treatments where required
• Lubricating drops for enhanced comfort during wear

Daily Cleaners

Daily cleaners are essential for removing lipid, protein and environmental deposits from the lens surface.


These are typically surfactant-based solutions used immediately after lens removal.

Clinical benefits include:

• Improved lens wettability
• Reduced biofilm formation
• Enhanced visual clarityprolonged lens lifespan

Protein Removal Systems

Over time, protein deposits can accumulate on RGP lenses, affecting comfort and vision.

Periodic protein removal treatments are recommended depending on patient tear composition and wearing schedule.

Clinical considerations include:

• Weekly or monthly treatment protocol
• Simproved long-term lens performance
• Reduction in inflammatory responses

Lubrication and Rewetting

Lubricating eye drops play an important role in maintaining comfort for RGP lens wearers.

They help stabilise the tear film and reduce friction between the lens and ocular surface.

Benefits include:

• Improved wearing comfort
• Reduced dryness symptoms
• Enhanced lens centration and movement

Optimising RGP Lens Care Outcomes

The effectiveness of RGP lens care depends on patient compliance, correct technique and appropriate product selection.

Tailored care systems are particularly important for specialty lenses, including those used in keratoconus and orthokeratology.

At Rose Optometry and NZERC, RGP lens care is integrated into a comprehensive clinical management strategy that includes:

• Regular corneal health assessments
• Tear film evaluation
• Customised lens fitting
• Ongoing patient education

Patients are advised to follow prescribed care systems carefully and avoid substituting products without professional guidance.

References

• Papali i-Curtin AT et al. Keratoconus prevalence among high school students in New Zealand. ʻ Cornea. 2019.
• Jones L et al. TFOS International Workshop on Contact Lens Discomfort. Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science. 2013.
• Nichols JJ. Contact lenses 2020. Contact Lens Spectrum. 2021.
• Efron N. Contact Lens Practice. Elsevier. 2018.