Abstract
Purpose::
Conjunctival flaps have been reported anecdotally in association with silicone hydrogel soft lens use (Fonn et al, 2005 Contact Lens Spectrum). The purpose of this analysis was to determine the clinical characteristics and resolution of conjunctival flaps and whether there were any permanent sequellae.
Methods::
Twenty-eight events of conjunctival flaps observed during extended wear of silicone hydrogel contact lenses were monitored until resolution. Slit-lamp biomicroscopy along with NaFl, cobalt blue light and a Wratten filter was used to assess the location and size of conjunctival flaps. The appearance was assessed at one, three and seven days following the event or until resolution. Lens wear did not re-commence until complete resolution of the conjunctival flaps.
Results::
Fifty percent of the flaps were in the superior-temporal region. The median length of the flap was 1.4mm (0.1-9mm) and its width was 0.3mm (0.1-2mm) and the distance from the visible iris edge was 1.5mm (0.3-2mm). Of all eyes that had an event, 50% had more than one flap. At the time of the event, patients did not report discomfort. One day after discontinuation from lens wear, 39% of cases had resolved and 64% and 75% had resolved at three and seven days respectively. All flaps resolved without sequellae.
Conclusions::
Conjunctival flaps resolve spontaneously with discontinuation of lens wear. Further studies are required to ascertain whether these events have any significance to the success of contact lens wear.
Keywords: conjunctiva • contact lens