Polychromatic Virtual Retinal Imaging of Two Extended-Depth-of-Focus Intraocular Lenses

This work characterizes two extended-depth-of-focus (EDoF) intraocular lenses, the Alcon IQ Vivity and the Bausch & Lomb LuxSmart, using virtual retinal imaging. A simulation-based examination tests these lenses under various conditions, while including dispersion and color effects.

A custom sequential Monte-Carlo Ray Tracer simulates the propagation of a broadband daylight spectrum through a mathematical eye model. Realistic color images of a pinhole and resolution chart were generated, with variations in object distances and pupil size. A comparison is made with the monofocal Alcon IQ to highlight the benefits of EDoF models.

Simulated images clearly demonstrate the superior acuity and reduced aberrations of these lenses at intermediate vision. There are notable differences between both models: the LuxSmart lens exhibits an increased depth-of-focus under both mesopic and photopic conditions. Conversely, the IQ Vivity lens shows minimal aberrations for far vision under mesopic conditions, making it ideal for night-time driving, albeit with a lesser depth-of-focus compared to the LuxSmart.

Our in silico investigation proves to be a valuable tool for evaluating intraocular lens performance. This study underscores the importance of characterizing lenses under both photopic and mesopic conditions and highlights the impact of chromatic aberration and color vision.

The simulation-based approach expands the range of methods for assessing intraocular lenses. By providing realistic images, it allows both ophthalmologists and patients to more intuitively understand the aspects of these lenses. The simulation derives visual predictions from a purely mathematical model, thus bridging the gap from technology to clinical application.