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Accommodating IOLs
These IOLs are designed to work with the ciliary body, a small muscle inside the eye. The ciliary body is a part of our normal near point focusing mechanism that we use throughout our lives. This muscle contracts each time we attempt to focus on something at a close range. When it contracts, it allows our natural lens to change shape, increasing power in order to bring near items into focus.
When accommodating IOLs are inserted into the eye, the ciliary muscle contracts and allows the IOL to physically move and change position. These IOLs have small hinges that allow for this movement to create clear near, intermediate and distance vision. Accommodating IOLs more closely simulate normal vision and have the least amount of unwanted visual sensations, such as glare or halos. However, they may not deliver enough near focusing power for some patients.
Examples
Crystalens IOL:Originally FDA-approved in 2004, Crystalens improved its original version and gained FDA-approval in 2008. FDA studies show that 80% of patients who used the Crystalens HD could see 20/20 at near after four months.Crystalens tends to give a little better vision at distance and intermediate zones and is an excellent choice for people who perform close work or hobbies.
Other accommodating IOLs:
Multifocal IOLs
To find out which lens is best for you, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider. Most eye surgeons will complete a lengthy interview about your lifestyle, occupation and how you use your eyes on a day-to-day basis to help you select the lens to fit you best.
4 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
Medicare.gov.Is my test, item, or service covered?
Bausch & Lomb,Crystalens HD received FDA approval.
Liang YL, Jia SB.Clinical application of accommodating intraocular lens.Int J Ophthalmol. 2018;11(6):1028-1037. doi:10.18240/ijo.2018.06.22
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