Visual properties of the foldable Array multifocal intraocular lens

To evaluate visual acuity, depth of focus, contrast sensitivity, and glare disability in eyes with an Array SSM 26-NB three-piece, five-zone multifocal intraocular lens (IOL).

University Eye Clinic, Vienna, Austria.

Fourteen eyes with an AMO Array IOL were evaluated for uncorrected and best corrected distance and near visual acuity. The reading distance produced by the near focus of the lens was varied with convex glasses of less power. Reading at distance focus was evaluated by adding +3.50 diopters (D) to the distance correction. Depth of focus was measured from -3.00 to +6.00 D. Contrast sensitivity and glare disability were also measured using the Brightness Acuity Tester with stationary sinusoidal gratings at 0.5, 1, 3, 6, 11.4, and 22.8 cycles/degree.

Mean uncorrected distance acuity (Snellen) was 0.79 +/- 0.17 (SD), which increased to 0.94 +/- 0.14 with best correction. Near acuity was J2.75 +/- 1.35 and J2.59 +/- 1.10, respectively. When near focus was tested for reading distance, a mean of +0.54 +/- 0.02 D was accepted for improvement of near vision of J1.71 +/- 0.94. Near acuity with a distance focus addition of +3.50 D was J1.08 +/- 0.28. Contrast sensitivity and glare disability were lower than in 13 eyes with a monofocal poly(methyl methacrylate) IOL and 16 normal phakic eyes.

Eyes with the Array IOL had full distance function. Reading performance could be improved with a near focus of more than +3.50 D. Full near vision could be achieved with the distance focus and conventional reading glasses. Depth of focus was sufficient but visual acuity was limited at intermediate and near distance. Although contrast sensitivity was relatively low, it was not beyond the reference range.