Soft (Hydrophilic) Contact Lenses in U.S. Army Aviation

The use of standard acrylic or “hard” contact lenses has been relatively unsuccessful in the military aviation environment, particularly when worn by personnel flying rotary wing aircraft. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the applicability of one type of hydrophilic lens to U.S. Army aviation. Nineteen volunteer helicopter pilots served as subjects and three specific areas were investigated. These were: (1) clinical procedures, (2) foreign body involvement, and (3) the effect of extended (72 hours) continuous wear. The results indicate that the Soflens TM offers certain advantages over acrylic lenses for this specialized application. There were, however, distinct problems encountered which may be lessened with the introduction of new lens materials and asceptizing techniques.