Latest multifocal IOLs perform well in younger patients

This prospective study found that the newer-generation aspheric multifocal IOLs can improve vision, reading performance and quality of life for working-age cataract patients.

They compared the one-year visual outcomes, reading performance, contrast sensitivity, and quality of life in 63 consecutive working-age cataractous patients bilaterally implanted with one of three types of diffractive third-generation multifocal IOL: the ReSTOR +4.0 D, the ReSTOR +3.0 D, or the Tecnis ZMA00 + 4.0 D.

All lenses provided good to excellent distance visual acuity with no significant intergroup difference. They also found good near photopic visual acuity with all three lens types, although preferred reading distance was greatest with the ReSTOR +3.0. In unusual working conditions or reading under dim light, the Tecnis showed an edge, while the ReSTOR was more suited for reading under bright light.  

They conclude that newer-generation aspheric diffractive multifocal IOLs are highly suited for working-age cataractous patients. Intrinsic optical differences, such as optimization for computer or dim-light working or night driving, could be useful tools to customize the IOL in each case.