Disinfection of hydrophilic lenses.

The cleaning and disinfection of hydrogel lenses has been discussed in the optometric literature by a number of authors. Although significant differences exist among authors regarding the disinfection method of choice, there is reasonable agreement that lenses that are carefully cleaned and rinsed are advantageous from the standpoint of both safety and lens longevity. Chemical disinfection with the soaking solution changed daily is a fail-safe method, while thermal disinfection may be less safe, perhaps due to ineffective lens case construction or thermal unit breakdown.