Energy distribution between distance and near images in apodized diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses

PURPOSE. To determine the energy distribution between the distance and near images formed in a model eye by spherical and aspheric apodized diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs). METHODS. The IOL was inserted in a model eye with an artificial cornea with positive spherical aberration (SA) similar to that of the human cornea. The energy of the distance and near images, as a function of the pupil size, was experimentally obtained by image analysis. The level of SA on the IOL, which is pupil-size– dependent, was determined from simulations. The influence of the SA was deduced from results obtained in monofocal IOLs and by comparison of the experimentally obtained energy efficiency to theoretical results based solely on the diffractive profile of the IOL. RESULTS. In contrast with theoretical predictions, the energ