PURPOSE:

Samfilcon A multifocal toric contact lenses (CLs; ULTRA® Multifocal for Astigmatism, or UMFfA) are monthly planned replacement silicone hydrogel CLs. The unique polyvinylpyrrolidone-containing silicone hydrogel material is designed to retain moisture and support the tear film. This study aimed to assess satisfaction of existing CL wearers, and their eyecare professionals (ECPs), following a trial of UMFfA CLs.

METHODS:

Between April 2021 and January 2022, 2,914 adult patients (average age 51 years) were fitted with UMFfA by 565 ECPs from 11 European countries. Questionnaires recorded patient satisfaction based on overall comfort (throughout the day, at the end of the day, after extended screen use), vision (distance, intermediate, and near), ease of transition between distances, and handling. Eligible patients included new CL wearers (either without prior vision correction or currently wearing spectacles as vision correction), or existing CL wearers.

RESULTS:

About half of participants (52%, n=1,519) were existing CL wearers; 87% began CL wear >4 years prior to the study. 78% of existing CL wearers agreed that UMFfA CLs provided sharp, clear near, intermediate and distance vision, with easy transition between distances, and 76% agreed that these lenses were superior to their previous CL. About 90% of patients were satisfied with overall comfort throughout and at the end of the day, and 75% were satisfied with comfort during extended screen use. Furthermore, 85% of patients stated they would continue to wear UMFfA CLs beyond their trial. After fitting 2,914 patients in total, 90% of ECPs were very satisfied (20%) or satisfied (69%) with UMFfA, 91% were very likely (42%) or likely (48%) to consider these CLs as the first option for patients who needed a multifocal toric vision correction option, and 90% would recommend them to a colleague.

CONCLUSION:

Patients and ECPs were highly satisfied with UMFfA. Over three-quarters of patients would elect to continue with wear and preferred UMFfA to their previous CLs.