RGP quality control: the results of a national survey.

BACKGROUND: Rigid gas permeable (RGP) contact lenses have numerous benefits; however, one of the possible problems of RGP lenses is variable quality that can result in reduced initial comfort and an unsuccessful fit. METHODS: A quality control survey was sent to 200 optometrists, selected at random, to provide information on lens usage, verification, use of reused or modified lenses, use of authorized laboratory, and to evaluate important laboratory characteristics. A total of 86 optometrists responded to the survey. RESULTS: The results indicated that most respondents fit between 10-25 percent of their new contact lens patients with RGPs. In addition, although both of these parameters can be extremely important to patient success, only 56 percent of the practitioners verify edge quality and even less, 38 percent, verify center thickness. Sixty-seven percent of the practitioners indicated that poor initial wettability occurred in, at minimum, 5-10 percent of all new lenses. 75 percent of the practitioners indicated that it would matter to them if the supposed new lenses had previously been used or modified. Finally, optical quality and lens parameter accuracy were considered much more important than turnaround time and material cost. CONCLUSIONS: It appears from these results that variance in quality control can result in compromised lens quality and performance. In addition, it can be reduced by more careful lens inspection by the practitioner. If careful attention is devoted to these recommendations, RGP lens use and success could increase accordingly.