Accuracy of the Refractive Prediction Determined by Multiple Currently Available Intraocular Lens Power Calculation Formulas in Small Eyes

Abstract

I read with interest the paper by Carifi and associates 1 Carifi G. Aiello F. Zygoura V. Kopsachilis N. Maurino V. Accuracy of the refractive prediction determined by multiple currently available intraocular lens power calculation formulas in small eyes. Am J Ophthalmol. 2015; 159: 577-583 Abstract Full Text Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (39) Google Scholar regarding formula accuracy in small eyes. I was pleased that the Hoffer Q 2 Hoffer K.J. The Hoffer Q formula: a comparison of theoretic and regression formulas. J Cataract Refract Surg. 1993; 19 (errata 1994;20(6):677 and 2007;33(1):2–3): 700-712 Abstract Full Text PDF PubMed Scopus (559) Google Scholar performed well in these eyes, as expected. Unfortunately there are several crucial errors in the design and reporting of their study. Accuracy of the Refractive Prediction Determined by Multiple Currently Available Intraocular Lens Power Calculation Formulas in Small EyesAmerican Journal of OphthalmologyVol. 159Issue 3PreviewTo observe the refractive outcomes of cataract surgery in small adult eyes, and to investigate the accuracy of different intraocular lens (IOL) power prediction formulas. Full-Text PDF ReplyAmerican Journal of OphthalmologyVol. 159Issue 6PreviewWe were glad to see that our article stimulated comments, and we praise constructive criticism. Our study showed better results than previously reported in this specific subgroup of very rare patients, almost certainly owing to the application of rigid selection criteria;1 however, a main limitation was related to the small sample size, as clearly pointed out in our manuscript. Given the comments, it seems necessary that we reiterate the conclusions of our study: regardless of the adopted formula for the prediction of the lens power “our study undeniably demonstrated that refractive outcomes achieved by patients with small eyes are definitely worse than those achievable, and routinely achieved, by ‘‘normal” cataract populations,” and “statistical analyses […] failed to show a superiority of any of the latest-generation formulas over the others.” These conclusions hold true irrespective of whether the median or mean absolute errors are chosen to compare the formulas. Full-Text PDF