[Special Intraocular Lenses in Refractive Lens Surgery]

Many different models and types of special intraocular lenses (IOL) are now available for refractive lens surgery. In particular, toric and multifocal IOL need specific conditions to achieve satisfactory results. For multifocal IOL, many models with different optical principles are available. For optimal individual patient-centred care, it is necessary to consider several different options. With special refractive lenses, the principle objective for the patients is to become less dependent on glasses.

Different IOL are evaluated on the basis of published studies and our own experience and data.

IOL filtering blue light should not be classified as special IOL, but should be used as standards. Aspherical IOL are only beneficial in special situations. Toric IOL give reliable and good results, as long as certain specific requirements are considered. Multifocal IOL are still an optical compromise, although they are the only IOL that can reliably make the patient independent of glasses. To achieve satisfying results, the optimal IOL model should be selected individually.

Many refractive needs can now be adequately satisfied by special IOL. The surgeon should provide ideal perioperative conditions, and he should be aware of the different IOL principles if he is to give the patient optimal advice. This can help to avoid upsetting both patients and ophthalmologists.