Advice

Learning to Fit GP Lenses

QUESTION: How can I become more proficient and confident with fitting GP lenses?

By Edward S. Bennett, OD, MSEd St. Louis, Mo.

Answer: There are several programs and resources to help you develop the confidence you need to begin fitting GP lenses. Here are two resources to help you get started.

GP Lens Institute (GPLI)

The GPLI is the educational division of the Contact Lens Manufacturers Association (CLMA). Their Web site (gpli.info) has a large number of resources, such as:

■ A module on GP management of the presbyopic patient, including slide presentations on how to present the options, how to proceed with fitting and how to calculate fees. Programs and resources for staff and patient education are included as well.

■ A comprehensive online book with 52 cases pertaining to spherical, toric, keratoconic, postsurgical, multifocal and orthokeratology design applications and management

■ Online symposia on fitting and problem-solving for GP lens designs

■ Fluorescein pattern identification card with problem-solving pearls

■ Fitting evaluation and problem-solving CD

■ A list of all CLMA member laboratories, which allows the user to search by laboratory and type of design

■ Soon-to-be introduced resources include a toric calculator — to compliment the Mandell-Moore empirical guide on the Web site, a video-aided management of keratoconus power-point and an interactive "Click ‘n’ Fit" program, which allows the user to make design parameter changes and evaluate the effects on fluorescein patterns.

Your CLMA Lab Consultant

Every laboratory has trained consultants to assist in both the easier spherical fits as well as the challenging irregular cornea, toric and multifocal fits. No question is too simple or routine for them. Perhaps the most common question they hear is, "What material should I use?" Every laboratory has a series of materials, and the consultant will make a recommendation based on each individual patient. For example, I prefer to use a low Dk (25–50) with daily wear myopes; a high Dk (51–99) on hyperopes, and a hyper Dk (100+) for overnight wear.

Ready to Fit GP Lenses

Once you decide to add GP lenses to your repertoire, your first step is education. Visit the GPLI Web site to learn about fitting and using GP lenses in your practice. Use a CLMA lab consultant to help you understand the technology of the lenses and the materials that are available. With these great resources, you'll be well on your way to a successful GP lens specialty. nOD