EDoF lenses – a pioneering procedure performed at a clinic in Bydgoszcz
8 August 2024
At the beginning of 2024, a new generation of EDoF (Extended Depth of Focus) lenses were implanted at the Oftalmika Eye Clinic in Bydgoszcz. This new type of intraocular lens appeared in Poland a few months ago, with the Bydgoszcz clinic being the first in Poland to undertake the implantation procedure. [1] The procedure represents a significant step forward in the field of eye surgery in Poland and also opens up new prospects for patients with cataracts and presbyopia, offering patients new opportunities to improve their quality of life through advanced technological solutions in vision correction.
What are EDoF lenses
EDoF lenses are lenses with an extended depth of focus. They improve both distance and near vision from 40 cm and have been available in Poland since 2016.[2] Their introduction marked a breakthrough innovation in the treatment of cataracts and presbyopia. The product is constantly being improved. EDoF lenses are designed to create a continuous range of visual acuity, from intermediate to far distances, with a more reduced area at close range. [3] They have a special design that extends acuity, providing good vision at both far and intermediate distances (computer vision). They provide better distance vision than multifocal lenses.[4] They also have a unique design and structure that diffuses light, minimising the discomfort of seeing at different distances.
Opportunity for patients with presbyopia
Presbyopia (also known as the aging eye condition) is a natural physiological process associated with the ageing of the body. As a result of these changes, problems with vision at close distances may begin to occur. It usually occurs after the age of 40 and is caused by reduced elasticity of the lens of the eye and weakening of the ciliary muscles that control accommodation[5]. Presbyopia is a natural part of the ageing process and, although it cannot be prevented, there are many effective methods to rectify its effects. It is also one of the conditions that qualifies a patient for EDoF lens implantation, which allows for the correction of nearsightedness and farsightedness.
EDoF lenses can also help patients with cataracts
A cataract is the clouding of the naturally clear lens found in the eye. It is a natural process that progresses with age – first the lens loses elasticity, then progressive clouding appears and cataracts develop.[5] Compared to standard monofocal intraocular lenses, EDoF lenses extend the range of visual acuity. They are also designed to improve the quality of vision at different distances. This is particularly beneficial for cataract patients who want to avoid wearing glasses when reading or seeing at a distance.
EDoF lenses as a major technological advance
The EDoF intraocular lens is a solution that represents a significant advance in intraocular lens technology, combining the advantages of monofocal and multifocal lenses with fewer defects. These innovative lenses provide a high level of independence from glasses. They cause fewer undesirable side effects, especially in terms of night vision, compared to multifocal lenses[7]. This state-of-the-art lens provides a full range of vision, good uncorrected visual acuity for far and intermediate distances. It offers patients with cataracts and presbyopia the opportunity to enjoy life without the constant need to reach for corrective glasses. Only a few clinics in Europe offer the possibility of implanting EDoF lenses; as of this year, the clinic in Bydgoszcz is becoming one of them.
