Influence of Material Properties on the Optical Performance of Diffractive Bifocal Intraocular Lenses

T. Terwee

Most of the diffractive bifocal intraocular lenses known today are made out of PMMA. The diffractive pattern can also be applied to lenses from other materials. For the pattern design the refractive index of the material is the most important property. But other properties as flexibi-lity and Yag laser resistance can also influence the optical functionality of the lens. We have tested the effect of dif-ferent material variables in a model eye on an optical bench. Differences in optical performance were found as a function of type of material, shape instability for flexible lenses and Yag laser treatment of the lenses.

Conclusion By measuring diffractive bifocal lenses in a model eye we could demonstrate influences of lens mate-rial properties on the optical performance.

Pharmacia & Upjohn Groningen, Niederlande

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