Khandelwal SS, et al. - In this systematic review and meta-analysis of 25 randomized controlled trials identified from databases searched from January 1, 2006 to April 30, 2017, researchers compared the efficacy of multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) to standard IOLs or monovision with respect to spectacle independence, visual acuity, or quality of life. Older studies were identified by using existing reviews. The results were synthesized by performing random effects meta-analysis where possible. Also, comparisons were made between newer diffractive lenses vs obsolete or refractive lenses. With multifocal IOLs, better uncorrected near vision and a higher proportion of patients achieving spectacle independence was reported vs standard IOLs or monovision. Statistically significantly worse pooled results for the outcomes of glare and halos were reported for multifocal IOLs vs monofocal IOLs. Additionally, with regard to near vision and quality of vision outcomes, newer diffractive lenses may be better than refractive lenses, with less risk of halos in comparison to older diffractive lenses and refractive lenses.