Authors' recommendations: The majority of the studies directly compared IOLs made of the same material (silicone, PMMA, or acrylic) and found the sharp edge IOLs to be superior. This is based upon the systematic reviews and RCTs reporting lower PCO rates and Nd:YAG capsulotomy rates with the sharp edge IOLs compared to round edge IOLs. In addition, one systematic review also analyzed the data irrespective of IOL material, and also found that sharp edge IOLs had better PCO, VA, and Nd:YAG rates. One RCT suggested that although optic edge significantly affected PCO rates, optic material may still have an effect. However, this conclusion is based on indirect comparisons and thus, future research is required before this conclusion can be supported. One systematic review stated that most round edge IOLs have been removed from the market. The availability of round edge IOLs, the lack of economic information, as well as the possible contributing factor of IOL material should be considered when deciding.

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.cadth.ca/media/pdf/htis/L0078%20Sharp%20vs.%20Round%20Optic%20Edges%20final.pdf

Year Published: 2009

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: Canada

Organisation Name: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health

Contact Address: 600-865 Carling Avenue, Ottawa, ON K1S 5S8 Canada. Tel: +1 613 226 2553; Fax: +1 613 226 5392;

Contact Name: requests@cadth.ca

Contact Email: requests@cadth.ca

Copyright: Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)