Mixing and Matching of IOLs Shows Strengths, Weaknesses

Implications: Presbyopia correcting IOLs currently represent 5% of all IOLs implanted in the United States (about 3.5 million per year).  The products available in this category include the ReSTOR multifocal IOL (Alcon), the ReZoom multifocal IOL (AMO) and the cyrstalens accommodative IOL (eyeonics).  Although the market share is small, some experienced surgeons may implant these in up to 30 - 40% of their patients.  Furthermore, these IOLs are priced at five and a half times the average of a standard IOL ($850 versus $150), so they represent a significant source of revenue.  In addition, surgeons and facilities may charge patients out-of-pocket for services associated with the implantation of these lenses at the time of cataract surgery.  Understanding the characteristics of each type of implant will help both industry and doctors to better position these alternative products.

Analysis: The first multifocal IOL became available in the United States ten years ago, the AMO Array.  Experience surgeons gained with that lens has enabled us to rapidly adopt the newer IOLs that have been introduced over the last 4 years.  In the coming year we expect eyeonics to present data on its new design, the HD-100, and the approval of the Synchrony dual optic accommodative IOL (Visiogen) as well as the Tecnis Multifocal IOL (AMO).  Each of these produces represents further refinement and improvement.  I expect to see increased market for the entire group of presbyopia correcting lenses in the wake of these approvals.