Research on the anterior segment of the eye

Dry eye disease can significantly affect the quality of life and has a high prevalence. We focus on the evaluation of tear film quality in conjunction with treatment options.

Pain-sensitive superficial nerve endings in the cornea are responsible for basal tear film secretion and hence play a significant role in the pathogenesis of dry eye disease. Corneal sensitivity measurement can be very important before and after refractive surgery, after keratoplasty, in the event of corneal dystrophy and degeneration, in peripheral neuropathy (such as diabetes) and in contact lens wear. We aim to develop a new concept for corneal sensitivity measurement, as there is currently no commercial device available for every day clinical practice.

In the field of contact lens fitting, we are interested in the visual comfort during contact lens wear, as well as the development of back-surface lens geometries for special applications of contact lenses, such as for corneal inlays and for contact lenses with a built in intraocular pressure sensor. We also specialise in contact lens cleaning solutions and how they interact with contact lenses and the tear film.

The refractive power of cornea plays a vital role in refractive surgery. It is therefore very important to accurately determine the shape of its front- and back surface. In cooperation with research partners we are involved in a research project to optimise and validate new algorithms for corneal back surface calculation on regular and irregular corneal shapes.