Influence of spheric and aspheric IOLs on visual acuity and contrast sensitivity

PURPOSE: To compare best corrected visual acuity and contrast sensitivity in patients with aspheric and spheric intraocular lens (IOL) after uncomplicated cataract surgery in photopic and mesopic conditions. METHODS: 38 eyes after uncomplicated cataract surgery were divided in two groups. A (18 eyes, average 69,5 +/- 6,89 years, spheric IOLs Softec 1, Lenstec, Inc. USA); B (20 eyes, average 69,47 +/- 9,44 years, aspheric IOLs Softec HD, Lenstec, Inc. USA). Follow up 3.-5. day and 4.-5. week postoperatively. RESULTS: Best corrected visual acuity in group A was 20/23, in group B was 20/22. Contrast sensitivity in photopic conditions between group A and B were nonsignificant. Contrast sensitivity in scotopic conditions was in group B (aspheric IOLs) significant in comparison to group A (spheric IOLs). CONCLUSIONS: Aspheric IOLs in scotopic light conditions provide patients with significant better contrast sensitivity than in patients with spheric IOLs.