The yellow intraocular lens and the natural ageing lens.

Abstract

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The purpose of this study is to review and evaluate the

advantages and disadvantages of blue light (400-480 nm) filtering intraocular

lenses (IOLs) when compared with the ultraviolet (UV)-blocking IOLs. RECENT

FINDINGS: Theories that blue light could be related to the pathogenesis of

age-related macular degeneration (AMD) have led to the use of yellow tinted IOLs

in cataract surgery to filter short wavelength light. In spite of the potential

benefits, some concerns have been raised. The potential advantages of the blue

light filtering IOLs are that they could better mimic the conditions of phakia

and therefore be more protective for the retina in decreasing the incidence of

AMD. However, the potential disadvantages are that blue light filtering could

negatively affect scotopic vision and circadian rhythms in older patients.

SUMMARY: These advantages and disadvantages of blue light filtering IOLs have not

been proven clinically and thus many questions remain. Studies have shown that

each type of IOL may have its own benefits and the type of IOL should be picked

on the basis of patients' specific situations. In cataract surgery,

considerations such as preexisting AMD, night vision problems or sleep problems

may be considered with the choice of IOL.