Design and qualification of a diffractive trifocal optical profile for intraocular lenses

PURPOSE: To theoretically and experimentally assess a new aspheric diffractive trifocal intraocular lens (IOL). SETTING: Centre Spatial de Liège, Liège, Belgium. DESIGN: Evaluation of diagnostic test or technology. METHODS: The theoretical profile of the IOL was designed using software simulation and validated by optical calculation software tools that enabled complete theoretical characterization. These data resulted in a new aspheric diffractive trifocal IOL. The IOL theoretically allows improved intermediate vision without impairing near and far vision and favors distance vision in mesopic conditions without increasing halos or glare perception under dim light or large pupil conditions. The theoretical findings were compared with those of in vitro testing on the optical bench. RESULTS: There was good agreement between the theoretical profile and achieved IOL profile. The simulated and achieved light distribution and focus distribution showed good concordance. The FineVision aspheric trifocal IOL provided intermediate addition at 1.75 diopters. CONCLUSION: The combination of 2 diffractive profiles to achieve far, intermediate, and near correction is validated. Further clinical investigations are required to validate these principles. Financial Disclosure: Dr. Houbrechts has no financial or proprietary interest in any material or method mentioned. Additional disclosures are found in the footnotes.