Toric Intraocular Lens Implementation in Cataract Surgery
Summary
Cataract surgery has evolved from simple lens extraction to a refractive procedure in which pre-existing corneal astigmatism is routinely addressed. Toric intraocular lenses are designed with built-in cylindrical power to neutralise corneal astigmatism at the time of cataract removal. Successful implementation depends on accurate preoperative assessment of anterior and posterior corneal curvature, selection of an appropriate toric IOL model and precise intraoperative alignment. Modern biometers, tomographers and swept-source optical coherence tomography devices enable calculation of lens power and axis orientation, often guided by nomograms or ray-tracing software. During surgery, corneal marking or image-guided systems help to orient the toric IOL within the capsular bag; meticulous capsulorhexis sizing and centration support long-term rotational stability. Postoperative outcomes hinge on maintenance of the intended axis and minimisation of residual refractive astigmatism. Globally, adoption of toric IOL technology has improved uncorrected visual acuity and patient satisfaction, reducing dependence on spectacles. Ongoing advances in lens materials, haptic design and intraocular imaging are refining refractive predictability, with particular focus on oblique astigmatism and varying posterior corneal profiles.
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Toric Intraocular Lens Implementation in Cataract Surgery publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in toric intraocular lens implementation in cataract surgery across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Toric intraocular lens: An artificial lens with cylindrical power incorporated to correct corneal astigmatism during cataract surgery.
Astigmatism: A refractive error caused by asymmetric curvature of the cornea or lens, resulting in distorted or blurred vision.
Keratometry: Measurement of the anterior corneal curvature, used to estimate the magnitude and axis of corneal astigmatism.
Posterior corneal astigmatism: Astigmatic contribution from the back surface of the cornea, which can affect overall refractive power and toric IOL calculations.
Rotational stability: The ability of a toric IOL to maintain its intended axis orientation within the capsular bag over time, critical for preserving astigmatic correction.
References
- Evaluating keratometry and corneal astigmatism data from biometers and anterior segment tomographers and mapping to reconstructed corneal astigmatism. Clinical and Experimental Ophthalmology (2024).
- Rotational stability and refractive outcomes of a new hydrophobic acrylic toric intraocular lens. Eye and Vision (2024).
- Accuracy of Toric Intraocular Lens Formulas With Measured Posterior Corneal Astigmatism of Different Orientations. American Journal of Ophthalmology (2024).
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