Choosing the right IOL: monofocal vs toric vs EDOF

Intraocular lens (IOL) selection shapes both the visual outcome for the patient and the supply chain for the hospital. This guide summarises the three design families most cataract programmes stock, and what procurement teams should specify.

Monofocal: the workhorse of high-volume programmes

A monofocal IOL corrects vision at a single distance, usually far. Patients wear spectacles for reading. It is the lens of choice for JKN-funded and other high-volume cataract programmes because outcomes are predictable, the surgical technique is standard and the diopter range is wide.

What to specify: material (hydrophilic or hydrophobic acrylic), optic diameter, square-edge design for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) control, UV filter, available diopter range and incision size. Ask the supplier for batch-level traceability on every consignment.

Toric: correcting corneal astigmatism

A toric IOL adds cylinder correction for patients with significant corneal astigmatism, typically 1.0 D or more. Outcomes depend on accurate pre-operative keratometry and precise axis alignment during surgery, so toric programmes pair naturally with optical biometry and surgical marking workflows.

What to specify: cylinder powers available, rotational stability data, calculator support and the biometer you will use for keratometry.

EDOF and multifocal: reducing spectacle dependence

Extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses provide a continuous range of vision from far to intermediate, with fewer visual disturbances than traditional multifocals. Multifocal lenses add distinct near and far foci. Both suit private-pay patients who want spectacle independence and accept some trade-offs in contrast or night-time halos.

What to specify: defocus curve data, contraindications (for example macular disease), and the counselling material the manufacturer provides.

Specifying for a tender

• Define the mix: most hospitals tender a monofocal volume contract with optional toric and premium lines.
• Require registration status in your country and the manufacturer’s quality certification.
• Ask for delivery in a full diopter range with documented batch and diopter lists.
• Confirm lead times for non-stock powers and consignment stock options.

PrecisionMed supplies the Agaaz i-Nera hydrophilic foldable IOL today and sources additional designs on request. Contact us to discuss your cataract programme.

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