Spherical aberrations and their role in modern ophthalmology

Clin Exp Optom. 2023 Sep;106(7):703-710. doi: 10.1080/08164622.2022.2160235. Epub 2023 Feb 23.

Abstract

Spherical aberration is an imperfection of the optical system of the human eye. The role of spherical aberration of the human eye in the quality of vision and pseudoaccommodation is reviewed. Spherical aberration is an imperfection of the optical system of the human eye. In most cases, due to well-developed neuroadaptation, it is insignificant for the perception of the image. Nevertheless, its role in modern ophthalmology is far from straightforward. On the one hand, there are clinical scenarios in which an excess of spherical aberration degrades the retinal image and leads to a high dissatisfaction rate among patients.©Recently, there is a growing interest in the modulation of spherical aberration in the clinical setting. Modern intraocular lenses as well as laser refractive procedures are aimed at interfering with spherical aberrations of the optical system in order to increase range of pseudoaccommodation. Here, we review the role of spherical aberration of the human eye in the quality of vision and pseudoaccommodation.

Keywords: Higher-order aberrations; optical system; optics; spherical aberrations.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Lenses, Intraocular*
  • Ophthalmology*
  • Refraction, Ocular
  • Vision Tests
  • Vision, Ocular