For a patient with astigmatism, what type of contact lens might be prescribed to ensure optimal vision?

In the case of a patient with astigmatism, the optimal choice of contact lens is a toric lens. Toric lenses are specifically designed to correct the irregular curvature of the cornea that characterizes astigmatism. Unlike spherical lenses, which have a uniform curvature and can only correct simple nearsightedness or farsightedness, toric lenses have different powers in different orientations. This design allows them to address the asymmetric shape of the cornea effectively, helping to achieve clear and stable vision.

For patients who require correction for both distance and near vision, multifocal lenses may be considered, but they primarily address presbyopia rather than astigmatism directly. Similarly, monovision lenses are designed for individuals who want to achieve simultaneous near and distance vision by correcting one eye for distance and the other for near focus, which may not adequately address the visual needs of someone specifically requiring astigmatism correction.

Toric lenses provide the necessary adjustment and stability required for patients with astigmatism, allowing them to see clearly across different distances without compromising vision quality. Therefore, prescribing toric lenses is the most suitable approach in managing astigmatism effectively.