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Consider risks of blue light phototoxicity, surgeon says
MAUI, Hawaii — Ultraviolet-absorbing IOLs are unable to filter ultra-violet and blue light like the human crystalline lens. However, new data has shown that the AcrySof Natural IOL (Alcon) is effective and safe in filtering ultraviolet and blue light similar to the pre-cataractous natural crystalline lens.
“The AcrySof IOL is designed to transmit light in order to approximate the human crystalline lens,” said Donald N. Serafano, MD, here at Hawaii 2003: the Royal Hawaiian Eye Meeting.
“The human lens and macular pigment are designed to filter hazardous ultra violet and blue light,” said Dr. Serafano. “When the natural crystalline lens is removed during cataract surgery, the level of protection against ultraviolet and near-ultraviolet light decreases.”
The AcrySof Natural IOL mimics the light transmission spectrum of the human crystalline lens, Dr. Serafano said. Clinical studies have shown that the IOL is both effective and safe. The addition of yellow chromophore has not negatively affected visual outcomes.
“The yellow color of the chromophore gives ophthalmologists a better view of the inserted IOL,” Dr. Serafano said. “Another advantage with the AcrySof Natural IOL is that implantation is similar to that of other AcrySof models.”
In a recent clinical study, the AcrySof Natural IOL did not negatively impact color vision. There was also no significant difference in contrast sensitivity between various models of the AcrySof IOL.
Providing long-term protection against ultraviolet and blue light will be the standard for IOLs in the future, he said.