Analysis of surface light scattering of hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses implanted 10 years vs. 1 month ago

Résumé

PURPOSE: To clinically assess surface light scattering of AcrySof® hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lenses in the long term, its influence on visual function, and its potential relationship with other factors. SETTING: Centro Oftalmológico Integral Bilbao-Berri (COI Bilbao-Berri). Bilbao, Biscay, Spain. METHODS: Retrospective case-control study. A total of 60 patients were studied, 30 who had undergone cataract surgery and implantation of an AcrySof® hydrophobic acrylic intraocular lens (IOL) 10 years or more prior to the study, and 30 who had undergone the surgery just 1 month prior to the study. The groups were compared in terms of bestcorrected visual acuity, contrast sensitivity and densitometry. The level of light scattering was measured at 0° and 90° on both sides of the lens, and in the middle regions of the optic. RESULTS: The densitometry analysis found that IOLs implanted for 10 years or more had greater surface light scattering intensity for both anterior and posterior surfaces compared with IOLs implanted one month previously (p < 0.0001). The whitening observed had no influence on visual acuity, but did significantly affect contrast sensitivity at some frequencies, both in photopic and scotopic conditions. CONCLUSIONS: Surface light scattering of hydrophobic acrylic IOLs is a serious complication that can occur over time after implantation, and seems to affect contrast sensitivity.