Impact of Global Optimization of Lens Constants on Absolute Prediction Error for Final IOL Power Selection When Using Intraoperative Aberrometry

PURPOSE: To evaluate absolute prediction errors following phacoemulsification with implantation of a multifocal toric intraocular lens (IOL) using intraoperative aberrometry for IOL power selection and to compare findings with the globally optimized and manufacturer’s recommended lens constants and regression coefficients. METHODS: Data from the Optiwave Refractive Analysis (ORA SYSTEM) were analyzed retrospectively. Absolute prediction errors from surgeries performed before and after the first optimization of the manufacturer’s recommended lens constant and non-optimized regression coefficients for the multifocal toric IOL (SND1T3-6) were compared. Optimization was based on outcomes of procedures performed using the ORA SYSTEM and archived in its database (AnalyzOR). Outcome measures included the proportion of eyes with absolute ORA SYSTEM prediction errors ≤0.25 D and ≤0.5 D and the mean and median absolute prediction errors. RESULTS: The pre-optimization group included 1027 eyes operated on by 184 surgeons, and the optimized group included 419 eyes operated on by 143 surgeons. The proportions of eyes achieving absolute ORA SYSTEM prediction errors ≤0.25 D (52.5% vs 35.0%, p < 0.0001) and ≤0.50 D (83.1% vs 66.2%, p < 0.0001) were significantly higher in the optimized than in the pre-optimization group. The mean ± standard deviation (0.30 ± 0.25 D vs 0.43 ± 0.32 D, p < 0.0001) and median (0.24 D vs 0.36 D, p < 0.0001) absolute ORA SYSTEM prediction errors were significantly lower after than before optimization. Prediction errors following optimization were reduced more in eyes of average than of long and short axial lengths. CONCLUSION: Global optimization of the manufacturer’s IOL lens constants and regression coefficients resulted in lower absolute prediction errors when compared with the initial manufacturer labeled lens constants and non-optimized regression coefficients. Reductions in absolute prediction error can result in lower postoperative residual refractive error, which can improve post-operative uncorrected visual acuity and provide the potential for greater patient satisfaction following cataract surgery.