Is there a Role for "Blue Blocker" lenses in eye surgery?

Cataracts are a leading cause of impaired vision and blindness among Americans aged 40 years and older. Some studies have indicated a link between cataract surgery and an increased risk for macular disease. This could be due to the increased transmission of short wavelength (blue) light to the retina. A study published in the May-June 2010 issue of the Survey of Ophthalmology indicates that blue light-filtering intraocular lenses (IOL) may help preserve the retinal health and lower the risk of age-related macular degeneration in cataract surgery patients. Clinical studies have shown that the blue light-filtering was well-tolerated and there were no reports of altered night vision or of insomnia. In addition, there were no reports of loss of visual acuity, color perception, or any significant loss of scoptic, photopic or mesopic sensitivities. Elise Ervin Staff Writer