Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, The University of Western Ontario, Canada.

Methods: The objective capabilities of both groups were analyzed through visual acuity measurements for distance, near, and depth of focus. Subjective functionality was assessed through the use of a questionnaire that included the previously validated VF-14 index of visual function, a global measure of overall satisfaction with visual acuity, and questions related to the frequency of spectacle wear.

Results: Both groups had excellent corrected and uncorrected distance visual acuity postoperatively. The multifocal group had better acuity than the monofocal group at near with distance correction in place (70% versus 43% achieved J3 or better). The multifocal group also had significantly better depth of focus. Subjectively, both groups indicated high levels of satisfaction with visual function. However, the multifocal group indicated higher levels of satisfaction during the day, at night, and overall without spectacles. This result translated into less spectacle wear for both near and distance in the multifocal group.

Conclusions: The results of this study indicate high patient satisfaction with the Array multifocal IOL and greater functional independence from spectacle wear, by objective and subjective patient measures, than with the monofocal IOL. J Cataract Refract Surg 2000; 26:96-100 (C) 2000 ASCRS and ESCRS.