Extended Depth of Focus (EDoF) IOLs represent the latest generation of presbyopia-correcting IOLs. In order to create a true EDoF lens with minimal visual disturbances, Medicontur developed the non-diffractive Wavefront Linking technology. This state-of-the-art approach is based on a series of central concentric refractive zones varying in curvature, linked by specially designed linking zones (see Figure 1). The new hydrophobic acrylic ELON IOL model utilizes the singular elongated focus created by Wavefront Linking to create real EDoF performance, providing functional vision from far to intermediate distances.
Several leading cataract surgeons shared their initial clinical experiences during the ESCRS congress in Milan, Italy, in September 2022. Their results confirm the successful translation of the optical principles to the actual visual performance of their patients implanted with the ELON lens. All of them highlighted that the ELON IOL provides outstanding unaided distance and intermediate vision both monocularly and binocularly – along with a high degree of functional unaided near vision. The majority of patients do not require additional vision correction for performing their daily activities; spectacles are only occasionally needed for near tasks.
Another important attribute of the newly launched ELON lens is the low level of dysphotopsia and other visual disturbances. “With the ELON, we have the opportunity to diminish even milder photic phenomena, which previously was feasible only with monofocal lenses – still providing an improved intermediate and good near vision compared to monofocal IOLs,” said Dr Joaquín Fernández from Almería, Spain.
The ELON lens is made of the unique hydrophobic SEMTE material designed by Medicontur, providing outstanding visual quality. The lens is marketed preloaded in the POB-MA injector system that allows easy and controllable implantation.
The well-known Bi-Flex IOL design ensures long-term refractive and rotational stability, hence serving as a reliable platform for astigmatism-correcting toric optics where stability is of utmost importance.
Surgeons have welcomed the ELON lens as an optimal choice for patients regardless of their patients’ age. They usually recommend the lens to patients who live an active lifestyle and would like to improve their visual quality but would not mind occasionally wearing spectacles for close- up activities. It is also a good option for patients already having a monofocal IOL in their fellow eye. Moreover, the ELON should be considered as the primary choice in cases with borderline anatomic findings, historically considered to be debatable candidates for presbyopia- correcting lenses, or for cases where the visual outcome with a trifocal IOL is either questionable or unpredictable. The ELON has been successfully used in subjects with well-controlled glaucoma, mild age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy or in patients who previously had LASIK, PRK, or other laser vision correction surgery.
Although the ELON IOL is new to the market and hence clinical experience is still limited, the clinicians who already have experience with the lens are happy to incorporate it into their daily practice.
