Multifocal implants in post Hexagonal Keratotomy patients with cataracts

[don3332]

I am post Hexagonal Keratotomy (HK) x5 enhancements per eye circa 1991; diabetic; w/cataracts; astigmatism @4.5dk L eye & 2.5dk R eye. Looking for a surgeon with experience in correcting the Astigmatism while removing the cataracts and implanting multifocal IOLs in post HK patients.  I am 75 and male. I would like to hear from patients with similar problems also. I live on the coast in NC. I understand there are very few patients with similar conditions and even less surgeons with this experience.  None in my  area.

[Forum-OD-MP]

good luck.  someone here will have had similar experiences...

[K-D]

I do not share your diagnosis.  However, I would really think long and hard about considering a multifocal in your situation.  Read the board and see how many people have problems with the multifocals. And they to not have your eye problem.  Many people have many problems with the multifocals and still have to wear glasses.

[don3332]

I have recieved an e-mail from one surgeon that indicates that I have had too much surgery already and probably may benefit from toric IOL implants along with the cataract surgery. I suppose there are some toric IOLs out there that will remove the astigmatism.  Any thoughts??

[JodieJ]

The new (last year) AcrySof toric IOL by Alcon is reported to be a very reliable method for correcting significant astigmatism.  Older toric IOLs tended to rotate in the eye, thereby negating the astigmatism correction.  Reports from the clinical trials suggest that the AcyrSof toric lens does not have this problem.  Good luck with your surgery.

[don3332]

I have recieved a phone call from a rep of a large IOL manufacturer.  His comments were to be aware of who/how I get images to  diagnose the amount of astigmatism.  He indicates that most equipment do not really provide actual measurements but provide best estimate.  Most equipment can not make true measurements of the curve of the eye.  The rep did make a recommendation of another  maker's equipment.  Has anyone had experience with the use of the Pentacam Scheimpflug Camera to measure the location/amount of astigmatism? Thanks jodie for your imput; it was informative.