title: Ultraviolet-blocking intraocular lenses: fact or fiction.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Ultraviolet-blocking intraocular lenses (IOLs) are used routinely in cataract surgery and are widely accepted. Blue-blocking IOLs, however, have been much debated since their inception. In this article, we will review the advantages and disadvantages of blue-blocking IOLs.
  
  
  RESULTS
  In experimental and animal studies, acute blue light exposure induces retinal damage and the use of blue-blocking IOLs lessens this damage. Many large epidemiologic studies have further investigated this relationship between blue light exposure and the development of age-related macular degeneration, and have shown conflicting results. Visual performance and circadian rhythm disturbances have also been explored in patients with blue-blocking IOLs; no significant negative effects have been shown.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The current literature on blue-blocking IOLs is contradictory. Studies have failed to conclusively prove that blue-blocking lenses provide photoprotection against age-related macular degeneration or cause any significant detrimental effects on visual function or circadian rhythms.
authors.affiliation: Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, New York, USA.
authors.forename: Edward
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Lai
authors.forename: Benjamin
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Levine
authors.forename: Jessica
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ciralsky
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002387:Cataract Extraction; D006801:Humans; D007910:Lenses, Intraocular; D008027:Light; D008268:Macular Degeneration / Q000517:prevention & control; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000517:prevention & control; D011835:Radiation Protection / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000379:methods; D012160:Retina / Q000528:radiation effects; D014466:Ultraviolet Rays