Which method is used to evaluate corneal clearance in scleral lenses?

Evaluating corneal clearance in patients wearing scleral lenses is crucial for ensuring proper lens fit and overall eye health. Fluorescein evaluation is the most effective method used for this purpose. In this technique, a fluorescent dye called fluorescein is applied to the tear film underneath the scleral lens.

Once the lens is inserted, the fluorescein allows practitioners to visualize the tear layer between the lens and the cornea using a blue light. This method highlights areas where the lens may be too close to the cornea or where there are adequate clearance levels, which is essential for avoiding corneal complications such as staining, hypoxia, or discomfort.

The ability to see the fluorescein pattern provides immediate feedback on the fit of the lens, ensuring both comfort and health for the patient. This method is widely adopted because it is non-invasive and yields direct visual evidence of lens clearance in real-time, making it the most reliable method for assessing corneal clearance in scleral lens fittings.