Screening for multifocal intraocular lens implantation in cataract patients in a public hospital

To identify the rate and characteristics of cataract surgery candidates suitable for multifocal intraocular lens implantation among patients undergoing preoperative evaluation in a public hospital.

Screening was performed based on the patient's medical records, comprehensive ophthalmic examination, optical biometry (Zeiss, IOL Master 700) and optical coherence tomography (OCT) (Heidelberg, OCT Spectralis) in accordance with the relevant indications and contraindications mentioned in the pertinent literature. Patients were included in the present study if they were eligible for bilateral cataract surgery. The exclusion criteria were the presence of central nervous system or motility issues, prior refractive surgery, the presence of astigmatism greater than 1 dioptre and/or the presence of important ocular comorbidities in either eye.

The study evaluated 1200 consecutive patients. Four hundred thirty-two patients (36%) were not eligible for bilateral surgery and were excluded from the study. Of the 768 patients included in the present study, 346 (45.1%) were considered suitable candidates. Four hundred twenty-two patients (54.9%) were excluded for one or both eyes. Among them, 121 (28.7%) were excluded because of retinal disease, 120 (28.4%) because of regular astigmatism (> 1.0 D of corneal astigmatism), 32 (7.5%) because of pseudoexfoliation or zonular instability, and 30 (7.1%) because of glaucoma or ocular hypertension; in addition, 90 (21.3%) patients were excluded for multiple reasons. Suitable candidates were significantly younger (70 and 75 years, respectively) (p < 0.001). After being informed about the potential risks and benefits of MOIL implantation, 212 of 346 (83.8%) eligible patients provided consent.

Close to half of cataract patients in a public hospital were eligible for MOIL implantation, and the majority of patients would proceed to surgery. The most prevalent contraindication was macular disease.