Multifocal diffractive intraocular lenses in cataract surgery--preliminary report

PURPOSE: Evaluation of the efficacy of multifocal, diffractive intraocular lenses in cataract surgery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: 20 eyes in 10 patients, mean age 64 +/- 9 years, included in the study, undergoing phacoemulsification of the cataract with implantation of diffractive MIOL (AcrySof ReSTOR, SA60D3, Alcon). Follow-up was performed for a period of 6 months. Postoperative evaluation performed five times included: visual acuity for distance and near without and with best correction, contrast sensitivity, patient satisfaction in 10-grade scale, degree of independence from glasses and frequency of lighting effects. RESULTS: After 6 months from surgery uncorrected distance visual acuity > or =1.0 was achieved in 55% of operated eyes (6/11), and the best corrected in 91% (10/11). Uncorrected near visual acuity in 2-6 months after surgery was achieved in all patients. Contrast sensitivity for spatial frequencies in the range 12 and 18cdg was decreased, but in 6 cdg was normalized after 6 months of observation, and in 3 cdg was normal. Subjective patient satisfaction in 10-grade scale was on average in the first day after surgery 7.9 points and after 6 months 9.3. The necessity to use glasses (30%) and lighting effects had no bearing on subjective patient satisfaction perception. CONCLUSIONS: Multifocal diffractive lens implants are able to restore good visual acuity independent of distance and is effective and safe method in cataract surgery.