Binocular visual function with a multifocal intraocular lens or a monofocal intraocular lens in patients with unilateral cataract

Objective To compare binocular visual function in patients with unilateral cataract after monocular implantation of a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) or monofocal IOL. Methods In this prospective nonrandomized controlled study, 80 monocular cataract patients were enrolled and accepted phacoemulsification combined with IOL implantation. The patients in the control group were implanted with a monofocal IOL, and age-matched patients in the experimental group were implanted with a diffractive multifocal IOL. Three months postoperatively, visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, stereoacuity, spectacle independence, photic phenomena, and patient satisfaction were assessed. Results The mean binocular uncorrected near and intermediate visual acuity were significantly better in the experimental group implanted with the diffractive multifocal IOLs (t=3.429, 3.925, P 0.05). Binocular contrast sensitivity with and without glare were significantly worse in the experimental group (P 0.05); However, intermediate and distance vision satisfaction were significantly better in the experimental group (Z=2.314, 3.137, P 0.05) but halo was significantly worse in the experimental group (χ2=8.807, P<0.05). Conclusion Monocular implantation of a diffractive multifocal IOL in patients with unilateral cataract provided better binocular near and intermediate visual acuity, spectacle independence, and patient satisfaction than monocular implantation of a monofocal IOL. While distance contrast sensitivity and halo were worse with the multifocal IOL, it can be an acceptable choice for patients with unilateral cataract. Key words: Monocular cataract; Intraocular lenses; Binocular vision function