The Tecnis® Multifocal IOL offers cataract surgeons a new way to reduce patients’ need for reading glasses.
By Kevin L. Waltz, OD, MD
Now approved in the US, the Tecnis® Multifocal IOL gives surgeons a new IOL option that takes advantage of both diffractive and refractive optics. The Tecnis Multifocal IOL uses diffractive optics across the entire optic. This design provides near vision that is relatively pupil independent, allowing patients to achieve good near and distance vision under a wide range of lighting conditions. On the other hand, because the diffractive optic covers the entire lens, it is more likely to cause glare and halos with a larger pupil than an optic with a limited diffractive zone.
The Tecnis Multifocal IOL also has an aspheric front surface designed to reduce the average eye’s net spherical aberration to zero—the natural state of young eyes. The lens is available in a hydrophobic acrylic material that minimizes chromatic aberrations. It also uses the OptiEdge™ design, which reduces edge glare and provides 360° capsular contact to minimize risk of posterior capsule opacification.
One thing to consider with the Tecnis or any current multifocal IOL is that the lens splits light between two, and only two, focal points. This creates good distance and near vision, but may limit intermediate vision. For most patients, this limitation can be overcome by simply repositioning a computer monitor or holding reading material farther or closer.
Patient selection is an important part of any multifocal lens procedure, but the Tecnis Multifocal IOL is generally a good option to consider for any patient who is a candidate for a multifocal lens, especially those with large pupils or those who want to be able to read in dim light.
As with any multifocal lens, polished surgical technique and careful attention to detail lead to good results. This includes addressing residual astigmatism, either with limbal relaxing incisions or postoperative laser refractive surgery, and treating any pre- or postoperative dry eye.
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