The purpose of this study was to compile and investigate currently existing information on orthokeratology and its use as a preventative measure for the development of high myopia in children and adolescents. The aim of this study was to produce more literature in Finnish about orthokeratology and its benefits in myopia management, as there is currently little information about the matter in Finnish. The thesis is meant for professionals in the field of optometry, but also for everyone else interested in the subject.

The research was carried out as a descriptive literature review with an integrative approach of the benefits of orthokeratology in myopia management. The material was searched and retrieved from various well-known electronic databases such as PubMed, CINAHL (with Full Text), Science Direct and Google Scholar. Six studies were selected for the thesis after thoroughly going through the results of the material search. The material was selected based on the determined acceptance criteria.

According to the obtained results of this study, orthokeratology is more effective in controlling the increase in axial length compared to ordinary corrective single vision glasses and soft contact lenses in school-aged children and adolescents. Early treatment reduces the incidence of high myopia and the risk of developing potentially sight-threatening complications. Young children and high myopes benefit the most from orthokeratological treatment, as their axial growth is faster. The results also show that overnight lenses are clinically safe for children and adolescents.

Future studies could compare the methods of myopia management that are currently in use. Which treatment produces the most benefit for the patient, or are all treatments equally effective? What are the pros and cons of different treatments? All studies conducted on myopia and myopia management are valuable as the prevalence of nearsightedness is increasing constantly around the world.