[Special intra-ocular lenses].

Intraocular lens (IOL) implantation is the method established worldwide for visual rehabilitation following cataract surgery. IOL's with particular characteristics and/or for special purposes are available for clinical or experimental use. Bifocal and multifocal IOLs have two or more foci for simultaneous far and near vision. The first clinical results are promising. The theoretically expected disadvantages, i.e., reduced contrast sensitivity or reduced visual acuity under reduced contrast conditions, have not yet been found in clinical studies. In cases of age-related macular degeneration, IOLs with a high negative diopter power in the center can be implanted as part of a Galilei telescope. By using high-plus power spectacles, a 2.5x to 4x magnification and a wide field of view can be achieved. Clinical investigation has started recently. Intraocular lenses for the correction of high-grade myopia are being tested by some surgeons. These lenses are made to be implanted in phakic eyes with a clear crystalline lens. Angle-supported and iris-fixated types are under investigation. Longterm results will show the clinical efficacy and safety. Other special intraocular lenses are iris-color lenses and a polymethymethacrylate (PMMA) iris diaphragm.