Visual function and complications after cataract surgery with bilateral multifocal intraocular lens implantation

PURPOSE: To evaluate the visual function and complications after cataract surgery with bilateral Array SA 40N multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) implantation. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study comprised 40 eyes of selected 20 patients undergoing cataract surgery with bilateral implantation of Array SA 40N (AMO). multifocal IOL. Three months after bilateral surgery distance and near visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, complications and adverse effects were evaluated. Patients' satisfaction was assessed using a subjective TyPE Questionnaire. RESULTS: Thirty-five eyes (35/40 - 87.5%) achieved the uncorrected distance visual acuity 20/40 and the uncorrected near visual acuity of J5 or better. Eighty-two and a half percent of the operated eyes achieved UCDVA 20/20 and J4 or better. Contrast sensitivity for distance and near measured binocularly were within normal limits, although for higher spatial frequency, contrast sensitivity values for near were slightly above the lower limit of normal range. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were few and only in one eye, further surgical intervention was necessary (IOL recentration). Three patients (3/20 - 15%) reported moderate glare and halo. Overall visual satisfaction measured with TyPE Questionnaire was very high (8.7/10). CONCLUSIONS: Bilateral multifocal IOL implantation was effective and safe in selected cataract patients, providing very good uncorrected distance and near visual acuity. Slightly reduced contrast sensitivity and increased perception of glare/halo were an acceptable compromise for near, as well as distance vision improvement.