Meta-analysis of defocus curves of monofocal, enhanced monofocal and extended depth of focus IOLs.

Background/aims: Recently, modified monofocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) (proposed mono plus IOLs) have emerged claiming to provide monofocal quality distance vision while enhancing intermediate distance visual performance. The purpose of this study was to conduct a literature review and compare the range of vision following cataract surgery with the implantation of standard monofocal, claimed monofocal plus and extended depth of focus (EDoF) IOLs.

Methods: Literature searches and a meta-analysis were conducted on Embase, PubMed, IOLEvidence App and the Food and Drug Administration premarket approval database. Mean defocus curves were calculated with a random effect model and study quality was assessed.

Results: After eliminating duplicate publications, 36 studies were included in the data extraction process. Standard monofocal IOLs were implanted in 549 eyes, 360 eyes with claimed mono plus IOLs and 1898 eyes with EDoF IOLs. At far viewing acuity, the performance of all three lens categories appeared comparable: all p>0.05. However, at the intermediate distance of 66 cm (-1.5D), and at a near distance of 40 cm (-2.50D), monofocal and mono plus defocus curve acuities exhibited comparable performance: p=0.22 and 0.77 respectively, while EDoF lenses demonstrated better acuity (all p<0.05).

Conclusions: There is a lack of standardisation of defocus curve measurements among published papers included in this meta-analysis. Despite some slight inconsistencies in measurements, the range of vision of standard monofocal IOLs and mono plus IOLs as measured by the defocus curve appears to be similar. The EDoF IOLs in this meta-analysis indicate a potentially better range of vision compared with mono plus and monofocal IOLs.

Synopsis: This meta-analysis seems to indicate that EDoF IOLs may have a better range of vision as measured by defocus curves compared with mono plus and monofocal IOLs.