Toric IOL

Cataract and Cornea Astigmatism Correction

A common refractive condition caused by either an irregularity in the curvature of the cornea (corneal astigmatism) or the lens (lenticular astigmatism), astigmatism results in the blurring of all images, whether they are near or far. This usually occurs when the cornea is shaped like a football with a steeper curve in one direction and a flatter curve in the other, rather than round like a basketball. This uneven shape causes light rays entering the eye to focus on more than one point, rather than only on the retina as they should.

Referred to as “the emerging standard” and a “triumphant moment in cataract surgery,” the AcrySof® IQ Toric IOL corrects for cataracts with pre-existing astigmatism simultaneously by delivering more precise, predictable outcomes and quality distance vision—without the need for glasses following surgery.

The AcrySof® IQ Toric IOL may also eliminate, in many cases, the need for limbal relaxing incisions, a technique in which incisions are made at the edge of the cornea to cause it to heal in a more spherical shape.

The latest in a long line of IOL innovations from Alcon, the AcrySof® IQ Toric IOL takes the most trusted platform for precise astigmatism correction and adds the enhanced image quality of an aspheric lens. The chromophore filters blue light without impacting color vision or the quality of vision. Some visual effects may be expected including halos around light during low light or in night time conditions.

How does an IOL correct astigmatism?

An intraocular lens (IOL) is used during cataract surgery to replace the cloudy lens (cataract) that was removed. IOLs can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism. Astigmatism is where the front clear surface of the eye, known as the cornea, is not perfectly round but rather is shaped more like a football. Consequently, the steepness of the cornea results in light rays focusing at different points and results in a blurred image. IOLs that can correct astigmatism are known as “Toric IOLs.” They work by neutralizing the astigmatism and allowing the light rays to be focused on one clear point.

Considerations with multifocal IOLs

• For many people, these IOL types reduce but do not eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. For example, a person can read without glasses, but the words appear less clear than with glasses.
• Each person’s success with these IOLs may depend on the size of his/her pupils and other eye health factors. People with astigmatism can ask their Eye M.D. about toric IOLs and related treatments.
• Side effects such as glare or halos around lights, or decreased sharpness of vision (contrast sensitivity) may occur, especially at night or in dim light. Most people adapt to and are not bothered by these effects, but those who frequently drive at night or need to focus on close-up work may be more satisfied with monofocal IOLs.