Corneal refractive therapy is a non-surgical procedure which reshapes the cornea during sleep. The individual using CRT lenses wears them during sleep and removes them upon awaking and is then able to go throughout the day without needing vision correction in form of spectacles or contact lenses. This FDA approved contact lens corneal reshaping system is used to reduce or temporarily correct myopia. The method was approved in June, 2002 by the FDA  in USA for correction of up to –6.00 D of myopia with up to –1.75 D of cylinder. These specially designed lenses redistribute and compress the corneal epithelium such that central epithelial thickness is decreased while peripheral epithelial thickness is increased. The reconfiguration of the epithelium results in redistribution of the refractive power of the cornea. The process is reversible when contact lens wear is discontinued

 

CRT  offers various benefits like  freedom from glasses and contact lenses during the day allowing active individuals to  freely participate in sports ; also eliminating eye irritation or dryness associated with contact lens wear due to outside dust and pollutants as it is worn during sleep. Besides, the process is completely reversible.

AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences) may soon approve the use of these lenses in India. Although it is in use in Western countries, trials are being conducted here before the final approval, and the results are encouraging.

It has some limitations too like it can be used for people with low to moderate myopia (short-sightedness) only, is not useful for those who use bifocal glasses, has to be replaced annually and is of temporary nature. Infection of the cornea is a possible risk as with other contact lenses.

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