Comparison of visual outcomes and reading performance after bilateral implantation of multifocal intraocular lenses with bilateral monofocal intraocular lenses.

Purpose: To compare the visual acuity outcomes, contrast sensitivity function (CS) and reading ability in patients with bilateral multifocal intraocular lenses and patients with bilateral monofocal lenses.

Setting: Vizyon Eye Center, Denizli, Turkey.

Design: Comparative case series.

Methods: Consecutive bilateral cataract patients having implantation of Acriva Reviol MFM 611 multifocal IOLs (Group A) or Acriva BB UD 613 monofocal IOLs (Group B) were included. Parameters analyzed 6 months postoperatively included monocular uncorrected distance (UDVA), binocular uncorrected intermediate (UIVA), binocular uncorrected near (UNVA), CS and bilateral reading performance using MN Read.

Results: The study evaluated 42 eyes in Group A and 40 eyes in Group B. There were no statistically significant differences in UDVA between two groups postoperatively (p = .39). Binocular UIVA and binocular UNVA are better in Group A (p = .00, p = .00). Under photopic and scotopic conditions, contrast sensitivity results were decreased in Group A, especially at high spatial frequencies. No statistically difference were found in reading acuity, critical print size and maximum reading speed between two groups (p = .57, p = .62, p = .22).

Conclusions: This study concludes that multifocal lenses are reliable and efficient replacements for reading glasses since they significantly improve the vision for near or intermediate distance activities.