Effect of defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses on myopia progression in children: a retrospective analysis in a German real-life clinical setting.

OBJECTIVES

This retrospective analysis evaluates the treatment success of "Defocus Incorporated Multiple Segments" (DIMS) spectacle lenses in a real-life clinical setting in Germany.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Axial length (AL) and objective refraction of 166 eyes treated with DIMS at baseline and 12-month follow-up were analyzed. Annual AL growth rate within the range of physiological growth rate was considered a successful treatment. Myopia progression of ≥ -0.5 D/yr accounted as treatment success. Differences in percentages of treatment success of subgroups depending on baseline AL and age against treatment success of the total population were investigated.

RESULTS

Considering all eyes, treatment success regarding AL growth and myopia progression was achieved in 46% and 65%, respectively. Male eyes with moderate AL showed treatment success in a higher proportion (73%, p < 0.01; 89%, p < 0.01); eyes with high AL showed treatment success in a lower proportion (25%, p < 0.01; 51%, n.s.). Female eyes showed the same trend but without statistical significance (moderate AL: 49%; 68%; high AL: 40%; 62%). Younger children showed treatment success in a lower proportion (male: 11%, p < 0.01; 38%, p < 0.05; female: 25%, p < 0.01; 42%, p < 0.01). Older children showed treatment success in a higher proportion (male: 60%, p < 0.05; 78% p < 0.05; female: 53%, n.s.; 77% p < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Eyes with moderate baseline AL and of older children showed treatment success after 12 months of DIMS treatment. Eyes with a high baseline AL and of younger children showed treatment success in a smaller proportion, therefore combination treatment should be considered. In future studies, males and females should be assessed separately.