The basic concepts associated with thermal disinfection of contact lenses are examined, and the mathematical models used to predict the probability of survival of microsrganisms are described and applied to common ocular pathogens. Based on that examination, a review of the Australian Standard for moist heat disinfection of hydrogel contact lenses is recommended. The timetemperature profiles of several commercially available heat disinfection units are established, and their performance in comparison to both current and proposed standards is evaluated.
Timdtemperature profiles for the Bausch and Lomb Low Heat Contact Lens Disinfection Unit were established during operation under a number of extreme but possible environmental conditions. These included low voltages, partially filled contact lens cases, low environmental temperature, grit in the heat well, saline in the heat well and combinations of these. Only the extreme combination of low temperature and grit in the heat well lowered performance to an unacceptable level. We recommend that practitioners strongly advise patients to keep the units clean.
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