What is the primary risk of moist-heat sterilization in contact lens care?

Moist-heat sterilization is a method that uses steam under pressure to eliminate microorganisms, and while it is effective for many types of materials, it poses a significant risk to contact lenses. The primary concern is that the high temperatures and moisture can lead to damage to the lens material itself. Many contact lenses, especially those made from soft hydrogels or silicone hydrogels, are sensitive to heat and can warp, change shape, or degrade when exposed to high temperatures. This can compromise the fit and optical quality of the lens, potentially causing discomfort or even making the lenses unusable.

It's important to understand that while disinfection efficacy and cleaning of deposits are critical considerations, the inherent risk of damaging the physical structure and material of the lens during the sterilization process remains paramount. This is why careful selection of cleaning and disinfection methods that are compatible with the lens materials is essential in contact lens care.