Two new intraocular lenses (IOLs) that restore vision to people with cataracts are now available in the US.

The new TECNIS Multifocal IOLs, developed by Abbott (ABT), provide people with cataracts options to have a full range of near, intermediate and distance vision, while customizing their treatment based on their personal vision needs and lifestyle.

"Restoring or improving sight can make a huge impact on how people live their lives, which is why Abbott is continually investing in the research and development of advanced treatments to help people see their very best," said Murthy Simhambhatla, senior vice president, Medical Optics, Abbott.

An IOL is an artificial lens placed in a person’s eye to restore vision after a cataract has been removed. While traditional monofocal IOLs are designed to restore far or distance vision, multifocal IOLs provide quality vision at multiple distances and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.

The new lenses approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration are known as TECNIS Multifocal +2.75D and +3.25D IOLs.
Along with the available TECNIS Multifocal +4.0D IOL, all of the TECNIS Multifocal IOLs provide excellent vision at near, intermediate and far distances, while each "lens power" version provides enhanced vision at a distinct distance.

The TECNIS Multifocal +4.0D is suited for people favoring near vision-related activities, such as reading a book. The TECNIS Multifocal +3.25D IOL is suited for people who favor activities at longer reading distances, such as reading a hand-held device like a tablet.

The TECNIS Multifocal +2.75D IOL is suited for people who favor activities done with intermediate vision, such as reading labels while grocery shopping.

"My patients are extremely satisfied with the new TECNIS Multifocal lenses," said Dr. Kerry Assil, medical director of the Assil Eye Institute in Los Angeles.

The TECNIS Multifocal IOLs have been well-studied. The FDA approval of the new TECNIS Multifocal +2.75D and +3.25D IOLS is based on a study of 445 people with cataracts.

The results showed more than 80 percent of people reported being able to function comfortably without glasses at all distances