Edge fluting is a feature most commonly discussed in relation to which contact lens category?

• A. High modulus silicone hydrogel
• B. Low modulus hydrogel
• C. Rigid gas permeable
• D. Conventional hydrogel

Answer: (A)

Edge fluting arises from how a lens edge interacts with the tear film. When the edge is relatively stiff, it resists conforming smoothly to the tear film and corneal contour, causing the tear film at the posterior edge to break into multiple narrow channels. This creates flute-like, parallel ridges along the lens edge.

High modulus silicone hydrogel lenses have stiffer edges compared with conventional hydrogels, so edge-related tear-film disruption is more pronounced and frequently discussed for them. Softer (low modulus) hydrogels tend to have gentler edge interactions, making edge fluting less common, while rigid gas-permeable lenses have different edge dynamics. So the feature is best associated with high modulus silicone hydrogel lenses.