Multifocal IOLs for AMD patients

Strategies for treating cataract in patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) include implantation of intraocular telescopic lenses and implantation of low-power IOLs that provide telescopic vision when combined with spectacles. A new approach using multifocal IOLs with myopic postoperative targets could offer a new option. Surgeons evaluated this approach in 20 eyes of 13 AMD patients. They implanted the AcrySof ReSTOR SN60D3 multifocal IOL, targeting an SE of -2.0 D, which yielded +5.2 D near addition. At six months the uncorrected near visual acuity improved in 18 eyes and was unchanged in two eyes. The corrected distance visual acuity improved in 14 eyes, was unchanged in four eyes, and decreased (≤3 lines) in two eyes. Patients reported improvements in vision, mental health symptoms due to vision, and limitations with peripheral vision. The researchers believe the preliminary results in this study suggest this multifocal–magnification strategy holds promise for visual rehabilitation of AMD patients with cataract. They note that it may be useful in guiding researchers and manufacturers in the design of high-magnification IOLs for
AMD patients.

JL Gayton et al., JCRS, “Implantation of multifocal intraocular lenses using a magnification strategy in cataractous eyes with age-related macular degenerationâ€, Volume 38, Issue 3,  415-418.