The Ability of a Virtual Implantation Device to Evaluate Two Intraocular Lens Designs

To evaluate the ability of a novel device using virtual implantation to compare the visual performance of two different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs).

In this prospective, masked, and randomized clinical trial, the visual performance of monofocal and lowadd bifocal IOLs was compared using a device for virtual implantation called VirtIOL. Eighty patients (< 50 years old with healthy eyes and without cataract) were enrolled in this study. Defocus curve and contrast sensitivity were measured using the Freiburg Vision and Contrast Test (FrACT).

Expected defocus curves for the monofocal IOL and the bifocal IOL confirm the utility of the method. The monofocal IOL provided a slightly higher mean visual acuity at 0.00 diopter (D) (mean ± standard deviation: -0.18 ± 0.07 D) compared to the bifocal IOL (-0.16 ± 0.08 D), but also a slightly lower visual acuity from -1.25 to -4.00 D. The mean contrast sensitivity was significantly higher for the monofocal IOL at 7, 11, and 15 cycles per degree. The investigators attest a high usability of the method due to simple communication with the test patient and quick and uncomplicated change of test objects.

The visual performance of the monofocal and bifocal IOLs was as expected, with greater depth of focus but reduced contrast sensitivity for the bifocal IOL. The VirtIOL device represents a promising tool to predict the visual performance of IOLs before implantation in patients. [.