The PanOptix trifocal intraocular lens is designed to provide an extended range of clear vision by focusing objects at distance, intermediate and near distances.
The Panoptix IOL focuses the light from three viewing regions. 50% of the light is focused for distance vision, 25% focused for intermediate arms-length vision and 25% focused for near vision.
Distance vision is used for tasks such as driving and watching TV. Intermediate vision applies to objects at a viewing distance of around 24 inches which would include car dashboards and most computer screens. Near viewing is set for around 16″ which works for reading and using cell phones.
The PanOptix had a European launch in September 2015. Since that time studies have been performed showing that over 90% of patients without other ocular pathology achieved an uncorrected vision of 20/25 or better for distance. Over 80% had intermediate vision better than 20/40 and 85% had reading vision 20/25 or better. The most significant downside to the lens besides not being covered by insurance is that some people experience glare and haloes especially at night. No lens is perfect and all lenses can produce glare and haloes. Standard monofocal intraocular lenses cause less glare and haloes than multifocal, trifocal and extended depth of focus lenses. However, the vast majority of patients implanted with the latest generation of premium lenses feel that the visual benefits outweigh the side affects and loss of contrast sensitivity. In a study done at 12 US centers over 99% of patients implanted with the PanOptix were so satisfied with their vision that over 99% said they would choose the lens again. I have implanted them in general surgeons, dentists and another eye surgeon. They all have remarked how well the Panoptix performs.