Four Years of Observation to Evaluate Autonomy and Quality of Life after Implantation of a High-Add Intraocular Lens in Age-Related Macular Degeneration Patients

Visual impairment resulting from advanced dry age-related macular degeneration (AMD) limits the ability to perform activities required for independent living and adversely affects quality of life. We aimed to determine changes in these parameters in patients with AMD-related geographic atrophy who underwent magnifying cataract surgery (MAGS) using a foldable, bifocal high-add intraocular lens (IOL). The high-add IOL (LENTIS® MAX LS-313 MF 80, Oculentis) was implanted in the better seeing or dominant eye of eligible patients with clinically significant cataract, best corrected distance visual acuity 1.3–0.5 logMAR (20/400–20/63), best corrected near visual acuity >0.8 logMAR (20/125), and stable advanced dry AMD. Self-reported feasibility of performing routine activities and change in quality of life were the main outcome measures. Eleven of 15 operated patients had complete follow-up to 48 months. There were no significant intraoperative or postoperative complications. AMD converted from dry to wet in 2 patients. All patients reported functional gains in the first 3–6 months after surgery, and 10/11 patients reported improved quality of life. From baseline to 48 months, functional performance remained improved in all patients, and quality of life remained improved in the 9 patients with stable AMD. Best corrected distance visual acuity and uncorrected near visual acuity improved in all cases after surgery. CONCLUSION: Implantation of the high-add IOL was safe and resulted in durable functional and quality of life benefits. To our knowledge, our report describes the longest prospective follow-up (4 years) of a series of patients undergoing MAGS for rehabilitation of low vision related to advanced AMD. Data are needed from larger cohorts, but our experience supports giving consideration to MAGS in appropriately selected patients with low vision related to advanced dry AMD. We encourage further industry development of this technology and additional clinical research to collect more outcomes data to determine its potential to help patients maintain highly valued autonomy and quality of life.