Perspective Chapter: Strategies for Achieving Full-Range of Vision – Multifocal IOLs and Surgical Options for Correcting Residual Refractive Errors

Abstract

Currently, cataract is considered one of the leading causes of visual impairment and blindness globally. Due to the development of surgical techniques and intraocular lenses (IOL) design, patient’s demands for complete spectacle independence have grown continuously. Today, the procedure of multifocal IOL implantation is an option for providing a full-range of vision. Although technology has advanced, there are still some drawbacks, such as lower optical quality postoperatively and postoperative residual refractive error, which also greatly reduces spectacle independence, visual quality, and patient satisfaction. Basic options for residual refractive error are the prescription of glasses or contact lenses, but in patients who require life without optical aids, corneal refractive surgery has proven to be a safe and predictable solution. Predominantly, laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis (LASIK) and photorefractive keratectomy (PRK) correction methods are applied, with an emphasis on Aberration-free excimer ablation profiles that do not include wavefront-guided treatments, given the uncertain methods of analyzing higher order aberrations (HOA) in patients with implanted multifocal IOLs.