Meta-Analysis of Materials and Treatments Used in Contact Lenses: Implications for Lens Characteristics

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advancements in contact lens materials and treatments, highlighting improvements in comfort, safety, and sustainability.

Contribution

The study provides a meta-analysis of recent innovations in contact lens materials and surface treatments, emphasizing sustainability.

Findings

Self-lubricating lenses and nanogels improve comfort and drug delivery.

Coatings reduce protein and lipid deposition for extended wearability.

Biodegradable materials show promise for reducing environmental impact.

Abstract

A meta-analysis was conducted to assess the evolution of, applications of, and recent advancements in materials and surface treatments for contact lenses. This study aimed to comprehensively synthesize the available data, focusing on innovations that enhance vision correction, comfort, and safety while emphasizing sustainability as a critical factor in future development. Registered with PROSPERO, this analysis adhered to the PRISMA and AMSTAR-2 guidelines. A systematic review of databases including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus was performed for studies published between 2019 and 2024, without language restrictions. Observational studies on optical materials and lens treatments were included, and a random-effects model was used to address the high heterogeneity among the included studies. From the nine studies that were analyzed, significant advancements were identified regarding the functional properties of materials and treatments. Key advancements included technologies like self-lubricating lenses that reduce friction, nanogels for prolonged therapeutic drug delivery, and coatings that minimize protein and lipid deposition, ensuring greater comfort and extended wearability. Additionally, innovations in biodegradable and eco-friendly materials underscore the industry’s commitment to reducing the environmental impact of contact lenses, addressing challenges related to lens disposal and recycling. These advancements highlight the potential of integrating functional improvements with sustainability, paving the way for more effective and environmentally responsible contact lenses.

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