Intraocular Lenses for Cataract Surgery

Details

Files
Project Status:
Completed
Project Line:
Health Technology Review
Project Sub Line:
Rapid Review
Project Number:
RC1515-000

Question

  1. What is the clinical effectiveness of cataract surgery using monofocal toric IOLs versus conventional monofocal IOLs with or without astigmatism-correcting spectacles for people with cataracts?

Key Message

A cataract is an opacity of the lens and is the leading cause of reversible visual impairment worldwide. There are no medical treatments for cataracts but surgical procedures that replace the lens with a synthetic lens (called an intraocular lens [IOL]) have shown to be effective for restoring vision. Premium lenses, including lenses to correct astigmatism (called toric lenses), are available but may not be covered by public or private health plans. Given that there is an increased cost associated with toric lenses, there is a need to evaluate their effectiveness compared to other available corrective options, including glasses.