Multifocal versus monofocal intraocular lenses after cataract extraction

Patient satisfaction and spectacle independence varies in eyes with multifocal IOLs

A Cochrane data base systematic review including data from 20 published studies comparing multifocal intraocular lenses (IOL) with monofocal IOLs found moderate-certainty evidence for equal distance visual acuity with the two lens types, but only low-certainty evidence for better near visual acuity or higher spectacle independence in patients with multifocal lenses. The review, which included data from 3194 eyes of 2061 patients, also showed that troublesome glare and haloes were more common in eyes with multifocal IOLs. The authors concluded that the impact of the adverse visual effects on patients’ satisfaction will vary and that motivation to achieve spectacle independence is likely to be the deciding factor.