Bilateral cataract surgery intentionally designed for monovision produces good visual acuity and high patient satisfaction, according to a study published in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
Researchers in Australia evaluated the outcomes of cataract surgery performed on both eyes of 26 patients. In all cases, a monovision correction was performed with intraocular lenses (IOLs). The target refractive endpoint of the second eye corrected for near vision was mild to moderate myopia ranging from -1.00 D to -1.50 D.
Visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, stereopsis, and patient satisfaction were measured prior to surgery and 3 to 4 months post-operatively. Patients were also asked how frequently they needed eyeglasses after surgery.
Monovision is a method of vision correction where one eye is fully corrected for distance vision and the other eye is made (or is left) nearsighted so a person with presbyopia can see acceptably well up close without reading glasses. Monovision can be performed with contact lenses or refractive surgery, including refractive cataract surgery.)
Results of the study included:
- 96 percent of the patients achieved uncorrected binocular distance visual acuity of at least 20/30.
- 92 percent achieved approximately 20/30 or better uncorrected near visual acuity.
- Good depth perception and contrast sensitivity were maintained after surgery.
Patients were generally satisfied with their vision after surgery. Approximately 25 percent of patients did not need glasses for any reason; one patient was totally dependent on spectacles. No patient required an IOL exchange or other additional refractive surgery.
The authors of the study concluded monovision cataract surgery achieves good visual function and patient satisfaction without the risk of troublesome visual symptoms sometimes associated with multifocal IOLs used in cataract surgery to correct presbyopia.
Source: Patient satisfaction and visual function after pseudophakic monovision. Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. June 2009.
Tags: cataracts, intraocular lenses, IOLs, monovision, presbyopia, refractive cataract surgery