Alterations in tear film and wavefront parameters associated with different types of disposable surgical masks in healthcare personnel during working hours: a randomized trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Facial masks are essential for preventing respiratory infections, particularly among healthcare workers. However, prolonged mask use may lead to ocular surface disruption, known as mask-associated dry eye (MADE).

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of different types of disposable surgical masks on tear film parameters and corneal wavefront aberrations during an 8-h work shift.

Design

Randomized clinical trial.

Methods

Sixty healthcare personnel at Rajavithi Hospital were randomly assigned to three mask groups: Group 1 (earloop surgical mask; Medimask^®), Group 2 (earloop surgical mask with adhesive nose strip), and Group 3 (anti-fog earloop surgical mask; Welcare 3D Blue Line Anti-Fog Mask^®). Non-invasive tear breakup time (NIBUT)

SUBMITTER: Chantra S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12496472 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jan-Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature