Refractive aspects of modern cataract surgery

• Published in: Klinische Monatsblätter für Augenheilkunde Vol. 223; no. 12; p. 943
• Main Authors: Riederle, F, Buchwald, H-J, Preissinger, C, Lang, G K
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: German
• Published: Germany 01.12.2006
• Subjects: Astigmatism - surgery; Biometry; Humans; Lenses, Intraocular; Patient Satisfaction; Prosthesis Design; Refraction, Ocular
• DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-927221
• ISSN: 0023-2165

Modern cataract surgery is a refractive procedure whereby one basically can achieve the targeted postoperative refraction. To achieve this goal, according to the patient's wishes, biometry, mathematical calculation of IOL power and astigmatism management are important factors. On the other hand, multifarious developments in intraocular lens technology also contribute to this target. The individual choice of incision (on axis surgery: incision in the steeper meridian, length, shape and location concerning cornea or sclera) reduces the preoperatively existing astigmatism. Biometry with personalised data and formulas of the third generation are important factors to achieve the targeted refraction. In addition to this, the development of manifold lens designs in the last years to improve intraocular lens quality has enabled progress within various domains, for example, the use of optimised intraocular lenses to compensate corneal aberration, the implantation of toric lenses for corrections of higher pre-existing corneal astigmatism or the use of phacic intraocular lenses to correct higher ametropia. Patient satisfaction postoperatively depends on the precise refractive result as desired. With our current operative and technical possibilities we are able to achieve this with high probability and safety.