Scientometric analysis of publications on orthokeratology over half a century

This research is aimed at elucidation of the current state and prospects of orthokeratology (OK-therapy, Ortho-K) development with the aid of scientometric analysis of publications from 1968 to 2018 inclusive. Two periods were characterized: “old orthokeratology” period from 1968 to 1993 and the period of “new orthokeratology” from 1994 to 2018. The first period is characterized by the absence of a clear trend in the dynamics of publicationscontaining “orthokeratology” term. However, publications growth during the second period is well approximated with exponential function. It points to the relevance and good prospects for the orthokeratology scientific area and the development of this method. Noteworthy, the growth in the number of publications containing the terms “orthokeratology” and “myopia” is 1.5 times higher than the one of publications, when searched only for the “orthokeratology” term. It indicates the elevated interest of researchers and clinicians in myopia and opportunities for myopia control with Ortho-K. The latter is confirmed by clinical trials and meta-analysis results, which demonstrate significant retardation of the eye’s axial length growth due to the use of Ortho-K lenses as well as safety of this method. The need to combine the scientometric approach with meticulous semantic analysis of the individual publications is highlighted. Clinical study designs, opportunities to increase the efficacy of Ortho-K and place of orthokeratology among other methods of myopia control are briefly discussed. Considering the fact that orthokeratology not only controls myopia progression and is being a good option for combination with other methods of myopia treatment, but also ensures the required visual acuity and freedom of various outdoor activities, the choice of practitioners in favor of administering Ortho-K is factually justified.