Dysphotopsia after cataract surgery: comparison of four different intraocular lenses

To assess the risk of dysphotopsia after phacoemulsification, with the use of four different intraocular lens (IOL) models.

In this prospective randomized study, 600 patients underwent phacoemulsification surgery. Four study groups were formed, according to the type of the IOL implanted: Meridian HP60M [Bausch & Lomb, hydrogel, 6 mm, three piece (3P), square edge, refraction index (RI): 1.470], Acrysof MA60BM (Alcon, acrylic, 6 mm, 3P, square edge, RI: 1.550), Acrysof MA30BA (Alcon, acrylic, 5.5 mm, 3P, square edge, RI: 1.550) and Clariflex (AMO, silicone, 6 mm, 3P, anterior round and posterior square edge, RI: 1.460). Patients were examined for dysphotopsia symptoms after 1 week, 1, 3 and 6 months.

During the first follow-up visit, 117 patients (19.5%) reported dysphotopsia. During the next visits, the actual number of patients still reporting phenomena declined. Optic phenomena occurred less frequently in patients with AMO Clariflex lens, especially when compared to Acrysof (5.5 and 6 mm); IOL odds ratios ranged from 2.27 to 6.7, depending on follow-up time (p value < 0.05). IOL optic diameter was negatively but significantly associated with the risk of dysphotopsia.

The design of the optic edge and the optic diameter of the IOL play an important role in the occurrence of dysphotopsia. AMO Clariflex, with round anterior and square posterior edge, overcomes the problem of dysphotopsia to a considerable extent.