RESUMO
PURPOSE: A randomized crossover comparison of Transitions Gray variable tint optics (VTO) vs clear and fixed-tint lenses was undertaken to evaluate the impact of VTO on vision-related quality of life (VRQOL) in a warm climate. METHODS: Fifty-nine patients were randomized to one of four lens crossover groups: Transitions-->clear; clear-->Transitions; Transitions-->fixed-tint; fixed-tint-->Transitions. Each lens was worn for 30 days. VRQOL was measured using a newly developed and validated questionnaire instrument-the Transitions VRQOL. Changes in visual acuity were assessed by functional exam. RESULTS: Overall, Transitions was associated with the greatest improvement in VRQOL relative to clear and fixed-tint lenses without compromise in acuity. Transitions proved statistically superior to clear lenses, most notably in vision comfort both indoors and outdoors. Seventy percent of all patients selected Transitions as their primary lens at the end of the study. CONCLUSIONS: Transitions brand VTO offer patients significant and clinically meaningful improvements in VRQOL superior to clear lenses. VRQOL assessments provide clinicians with valuable information above and beyond visual acuity to help optimize lens product selection and enhance patient satisfaction.