Researchers have developed soft contact lenses that not only correct vision but also can monitor glucose and medical conditions and be used for ocular pain relief or drug delivery. The team created a novel method for attaching sensors and other small devices to soft contact lenses.

A commercial soft contact lens combined with an ultrathin con-formal sensor circuit. (Credit: Purdue University)

The sensors embedded on the soft contact lens detect the levels of glucose, lactate, and pH value in a continuous manner, providing information associated with diabetes, hypoxia, and underlying ocular tissue health. With the ability to combine soft, silicon-based contact lenses with a variety of different semiconductor devices, numerous advanced eye care applications are now possible.

The unique technology enables the integration of thin film sensors with a commercially available soft contact lens. Researchers say the technology is highly novel and will significantly expand the functionality of existing soft contact lenses.

For more information, visit here .