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Intermediate Technical IVT

Accommodative IOL

Intraocular lens designed to change position or shape to provide variable focal power and reduce presbyopia.

Full Definition

An accommodative intraocular lens (IOL) is a specialized lens implant designed to restore some degree of natural accommodation after cataract surgery by moving within the eye or changing shape in response to ciliary muscle contraction. These lenses aim to provide improved intermediate and near vision compared to traditional monofocal IOLs, potentially reducing dependence on reading glasses. Current designs include single-optic lenses that move anteriorly with accommodation and dual-optic systems with variable separation. While accommodative IOLs represent an advancement in presbyopia correction, their clinical performance varies and may not fully restore youthful accommodative amplitude.

Usage

Usage note: Distinguish from 'accommodating,' which refers to being helpful. Hyphenate when used as compound modifier.

In Context

  • "The accommodative IOL provided 1.5 diopters of effective accommodation at six months." — Clinical outcomes report
  • "Patient counseling emphasized realistic expectations for accommodative IOL performance." — Preoperative consultation

Also known as

accommodating IOL

Contrasted with

monofocal IOL

Don't confuse with

multifocal IOL extended depth of focus IOL

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