Optimising Performance of Orthokeratology
We are delighted to announce a National Industry PhD Program collaboration between UNSW Sydney and ZEISS Medical Technology, focused on advancing personalised approaches to childhood myopia management through innovations in orthokeratology treatment. This project brings together world-leading expertise in optometry research and ophthalmic product development to improve outcomes for children living with progressive myopia.
The project, “Optimising Performance of Orthokeratology”, will investigate how orthokeratology lens design parameters influence corneal shape and optical defocus to improve treatment outcomes for childhood myopia. While orthokeratology is an established treatment for slowing myopia progression, outcomes currently vary considerably between patients. This research aims to identify the factors that enable personalised treatment approaches, moving beyond the current one-size-fits-all model and creating pathways for customised lens designs that better meet individual patient needs.
This project combines the internationally recognised expertise of the UNSW School of Optometry and Vision Science with the global ophthalmic innovation capabilities of ZEISS Vision Care. The collaboration builds upon an existing relationship through Padmaja Sankaridurg's professorial appointment at UNSW and a history of joint research contributions to major international myopia initiatives. Together, the partners will combine clinical research, patient-centred trial design and industry knowledge to develop new approaches to personalised myopia treatment.
Dr. Leo Ouyang, Head of Global Vision Solution Research, ZEISS Vision Care says that the collaboration is an opportunity to translate scientific research and insights to future vision care solutions. A better understanding of Orthokeratology can strengthen evidence- based innovation, inform next generation lens designs and create added value for patients, eye care professionals as well as the industry.
Associate Professor Pauline Kang, Deputy Head of School, UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science says that collaborating with Zeiss, a world-leading ophthalmic industry partner, will open exciting opportunities to advance cutting edge translational research with real-world impact for patients with myopia.
Brian P., PhD Candidate, UNSW says that working at the intersection of academia and industry provides a unique opportunity to collaborate with world-class experts and contribute to the knowledge base underpinning real-world vision solutions.
Myopia is one of the fastest-growing public health challenges globally, with projections suggesting that half of the worlds population may be affected by 2050. By improving the effectiveness and individualisation of orthokeratology treatment, this project aims to reduce progression of childhood myopia and the risk of sight-threatening complications later in life.
Isabelle Jalbert, Simon Kalucy, Artha Arthavelina, Campus Plus, #DoE #NIPhD