Surface profiles of new-generation IOLs with improved intermediate vision

Purpose: To evaluate the surface profile of different new-generation intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed to improve intermediate vision. Setting: Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy. Design: Prospective experimental laboratory study. Methods: One higher-order aspheric monofocal IOL (Tecnis Eyhance ICB00) and 2 extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) IOLs (Tecnis Symfony ZXR00, Mini Well Ready) were examined and compared with monofocal IOLs with the same platform (Sensar AAB00, Tecnis ZCB00, Mini 4 Ready) using contact profilometry. Raw profiles were obtained and compared. The best-fit circle was then subtracted from each raw profile to highlight differences. Results: The new higher-order aspheric IOL presented a peculiar profile, which appeared similar to the conventional monofocal IOL based on the same platform, with just minimal differences in the central design. One of the EDOF IOLs showed a diffractive design. The EDOF IOL based on spherical aberration presented a central steepening surrounded by a symmetric lateral change in depths. Conclusions: Improved intermediate vision can be achieved by means of different optic designs. Unlike the traditional EDOF and multifocal IOLs based on a diffractive design, the profiles of new-generation IOLs are characterized by smooth and progressive changes of the superficial geometry.