Effects Of Microwave Disinfection On Hydrogel Contact Lenses.

In the recent literature, several authors have experimented with new hydrogel lens disinfection systems using conventional microwave ovens. These studies evaluated disinfection effectiveness, comfort, fitting characteristics, and effects on physical parameters of a limited number of lenses. This laboratory experiment was designed to investigate the potential of protein deposition during microwave disinfection. Matched groups of lenses from three of the four FDA categories of hydrogel lenses were exposed to simulated human "tear" solutions then disinfected by microwaves or traditional heat. No significant difference was found in deposit formation between microwave and heat groups. The study also reports pre- and postexperiment results of diameter, base curve, and refractive power for four brands of lenses not previously studied in regards to microwaves. No changes in diameter, base curve, and refractive power were found. A review of microwave disinfection is presented, and because microwaves have many potential qualities it is suggested that further study be done on these new systems.